A TikToker's comedic sketch about unrealistic expectations for entry-level job applicants has resonated with viewers sharing similar frustrations. Originally posted by user Jamie (@jamiemarkss) on TikTok, the video highlights the complexities of the current job market and the frustrations job seekers face while criticizing employers who underpay or set unrealistic requirements for entry-level candidates.
In some cases, Jamie said, the hiring body expects the candidate to bypass a college degree but come with years of experience in the field.
“You don't need a college degree, but you do need 15 years of relevant experience,” she said.
Jamie said applicants often find that even when they locate a suitable position, the wages are far below reasonable expectations, or they are asked to perform another employee's duties at low pay.
“Do someone else's job for them as an assistant and earn $5,000 a year.”
“Looking for freelance creatives to make $13 an hour part-time,” she added, acting out the situation.
She also addressed the common experience of applying for a position and never hearing back — what job seekers commonly call being 'ghosted' by employers. She also talked about the rise of fake job postings.
“Apply to this job and we'll never tell you if you got it or not. Oh, you applied to this job? It's not real.”
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Several commenters shared similar experiences in the replies.
One commenter, suggesting they suspected racial bias may be a factor in their rejections, wrote, ‘At this point I’m done applying and doing interviews like how I stay in a big city and no one is hiring I’m tired of hearing wait a week and I’ll get back to you I have 2 degrees and a high school diploma I feel like it’s my color at this point.”
Another user rang a similar tune and added, “‘Required experience: associates degree OR 2 years of relevant experience’ I’ll do you one better, I have a bachelors degree AND 1 year of relevant experience ‘sorry we went with someone who meets the qualifications.’”
“I saw a listing for a part time receptionist position. It required a Bachelor's degree or a degree in office management and 2-5 years of experience. It also paid $12/hr,” said a separate user.
A fourth viewer wrote, “I had 5 rounds of interviews for an entry level job. They flew me to nyc for the final round to meet everyone. I was 100% sure I got it. Next day got the email ‘we went with another candidate.’”
“I saw a few job postings that required a masters but were only paying $17 an hour and required to use your own vehicle for work related trips with no gas reimbursement,” wrote one user.
The Daily Dot was unable to independently verify the events described in this post. The details above reflect the account shared by user Jamie (@jamiemarkss) on TikTok.
