Boston — TikTok has evolved over the past few years to become much more than just a platform for viral dance challenges, tutorials, and fun videos. Today, the platform serves as an all-around lifeline for its users.
While Google or YouTube might have been the go-to place on the internet for help in various categories, Gen Z is increasingly turning to TikTok for all their questions and concerns, with the platform surpassing Google as a popular search engine among younger generations. As the most media-literate generation, it’s no surprise that Gen Z is also scouring the app for professional advice.
It’s not just the video format that creates more trust for Gen Z, it’s also the platform itself. Some Gen Zers are well aware of Google’s shortcomings as a search engine and believe that search results do not meet their needs.
2021 Nielsen Study Shows Users Finding TikTok Content more authentic and more unique than other platforms.
For professional advice, typical things you can find on TikTok include simple things like how to develop an email signature and messaging language to use as a reference when interacting with recruiters during the application process.
More complex topics include what to expect in specific job fields, what each interview means, navigating the job search based on the subject’s interests, and career transitions.
You will also find information on the job market, as well as statistics on economic history and developments since the COVID-19 pandemic hit our world.
TikTok creators who identify as hiring managers, recruiters, or talent acquisition professionals tend to use their personal experience to demonstrate the reality of the job application process as we know it today, all by remaining honest with users of the platform. This drives growth and reach.
Recruiters with active TikTok accounts are often able to provide inside information to help you get your application read, reviewed and moved to the interview stage. This is especially valuable because while the teachers and other professionals in your life may have good intentions, it is highly recommended that you engage with current human resources staff members who are willing to contribute their expertise in your best professional interest .
Hiring managers on TikTok know what important skills others like them may be looking for in a job search. It’s important to remember that while you’re looking for your best job match, companies are also looking for theirs.
When TikTok creators work from this framework, they often provide example post-interview questions to ask so that conversations flow more smoothly, rather than being primarily one-sided. They also advise certain things to listen for or look for when researching an organization to encourage professional clarity.
For those with irrelevant experience, recruiters on TikTok have explained how to highlight these skills on your resume, in your cover letter, and during interviews in a way that is applicable to the position you are applying for at that time. These strategies and tactics can set you apart and stand out during the interview process.
Comment sections on TikTok are often safe spaces for users to share their experiences, providing networking opportunities, and allowing creators to provide more situation-specific advice. This is especially helpful because there is no one-size-fits-all experience and learning from experts is always the best way to ensure Gen Z optimizes their application.
The searches for professional development will always be endless, and TikTok seems to have answers or perspectives for any scenario that is sure to arise.
As internship application season is upon us and job applications are within reach, so is TikTok – and it should be used ingeniously and accordingly.
Trinity Alicia (she/hers) is a journalist based in Boston. Follow her on X: @trinityaliciaa.
Edited by NaTyshca Pickett
