Amid the worsening unemployment crisis, China has seen the rise of an unusual trend where companies provide “pretend to work” services to help unemployed individuals hide their status from family and friends.
For a daily fee of around 30 yuan (Rs 290), these services provide office space, lunch and even mock workstations with computers and phones. Some providers even offer a “Boss” package, where customers can take photos while sitting on a leather chair, the South China Morning Post reports.
In Hebei province, one such service offers office access for 29.9 yuan (Rs 280) per day, enabling users to “work” from 10 am to 5 pm while enjoying lunch.
Unemployment is a growing problem in China, especially among the youth. China’s unemployment rate rose from 5 percent in November to 5.1 percent in December 2024, the highest level in three months. For locally registered residents, the unemployment rate increased slightly to 5.3 percent. According to China’s National Bureau of Statistics, among non-local residents it was 4.6 percent, while among non-local agricultural workers the rate was slightly lower at 4.5 percent.
The pressure to keep up appearances has led many individuals to adopt creative strategies. A former e-commerce worker from Hangzhou spent his days in a coffee shop while applying for jobs but told his family he was still employed. “I didn’t want to worry them,” he said.
A 29-year-old former semiconductor employee kept his layoff a secret from his girlfriend. He used his severance pay to prepare for civil service examinations in a library, acting as if he was still working.
While “pretend to work” services are gaining attention, experts say it’s not a healthy way to deal with it. He attributed this phenomenon to social pressure to succeed and the stigma associated with unemployment.
“The sudden shock of losing a job can cause depression,” said Zhang Yong, a professor of social work at Wuhan University.
He advised people to talk openly with their families, seek counseling and be realistic about their job prospects. “They need to take an honest look at their situation, understand the job market, be open with their families and develop a healthy mindset about career choices,” he said.