#SHIFTSHOCK: WHY YOUR COMPANY CAN’T AFFORD TO IGNORE THIS TIKTOK TREND
Have you ever started a new job and felt like you'd stepped into a parallel universe? Perhaps the job description promised a vibrant, collaborative environment, but when you arrive, it's crickets and a sea of creepy cubicles. This jarring disconnect, which has recently become a trending topic on TikTok under the hashtag #shiftshock, is a real phenomenon affecting new hires across tons of industries.
What is #ShiftShock?
When employees realize their job is not what they were expecting, it’s called shift shock– the feeling of disappointment and disillusionment that new employees experience when they’ve been misled. This experience can be caused by a variety of factors, like deceptive job descriptions, lack of transparency, and poor onboarding protocol. If this sounds like something you’ve been through, you’re in good company. The Muse found that 72% of respondents have experienced shift shock—that’s nearly 3 out of 4 professionals!
Shift shock doesn’t just affect employees; it can seriously damage a company's reputation. Disgruntled employees vent on Glassdoor, spill the tea on LinkedIn, and yes, even unleash their frustration in viral TikTok rants. Bad news travels fast, especially in the digital age, and a tarnished reputation can scare off potential star players and make current employees question their own career choices. Keep in mind that it’s a small world, and that disgruntled ex-employee might just be your next hire's best friend. Protecting your company's name isn't just good ethics, it's smart business.
How do companies prevent Shift Shock?
Preventing shift shock starts during the hiring process, so employers should start being more transparent from day one. Avoid sugar-coating the company culture, day-to-day responsibilities, and challenges of the job. We recommend being upfront about the daily grind, the potential pitfalls, and the less glamorous aspects of the role. Give candidates a realistic preview of what to expect, so they can make an informed decision and hopefully avoid that post-hire "oh no" moment.
Forget those lackluster onboarding programs that involve a stack of paperwork and stale bagels. Instead, welcome your new employees with a comprehensive onboarding experience that goes beyond the basics. This means walking new hires through the nuts and bolts of their role, but also informing them of office quirks (unspoken rules of the company fridge) and company lingo (acronyms need explaining!).
Remember, those first few weeks can be a whirlwind, so offer a friendly face and a listening ear. Whether it's a casual chat over coffee or a scheduled check-ins, it’s essential to make sure new hires feel heard and supported.
In the end, shift shock isn't just a personal problem; it's a shared responsibility. Companies that prioritize transparency, honesty, and a supportive onboarding process will not only attract top talent but also retain them for the long haul. By fostering a culture of open communication and realistic expectations, employers can set their new hires up for success and create a workplace where everyone feels valued, understood, and empowered.
