Gen Z’s Major Pivot: 68% Switch Degrees After TikTok Career Advice
Generation Z, also known as the Zoomers, are known as the first truly digital-native generation. Growing up in a digitally-connected world, they have formed their own unique attitudes, behaviors, and beliefs. They are known for their entrepreneurial spirit and their ability to navigate and adapt to the constantly evolving landscape of the internet. One platform that has played a significant role in shaping the career decisions of Gen Z is TikTok. With its short-form videos and endless scroll of content, TikTok has become more than just a form of entertainment for this generation. It has now become a source of career inspiration and guidance, leading to a major pivot in their college degrees. According to recent studies, 68% of Gen Z has changed their chosen degree path after receiving career advice from TikTok. Let’s explore how TikTok has influenced Gen Z’s major pivot and what it means for the future of career development among this generation.
The Rise of TikTok in Gen Z’s Life
TikTok, a Chinese-owned social media app, was launched in 2016 and has since gained a massive following worldwide. With over 500 million active users, the app has become a household name among Gen Z. It provides its users with a platform to create and share short-form videos, ranging from lip-syncing to dancing, comedy, and educational content. What sets TikTok apart from other social media platforms is its algorithm-based feed that personalizes content for each user based on their interests and engagement. This has made it easier for users to discover new content and creators, leading to a higher engagement rate.
For Gen Z, TikTok has become a place to showcase their creativity, express their opinions, and build their brand. It has given them a voice, and they have used it to discuss topics such as mental health, social issues, and career ambitions. This has made TikTok a go-to platform for Gen Z when seeking career inspiration and advice.
TikTok as a Career Advisor
With the rise of gig economy and remote work options, Gen Z is no longer bound to traditional career paths. They are looking for more flexible and unconventional ways to earn a living. This is where TikTok has become a valuable resource. The app is filled with content from creators sharing their career experiences, offering advice, and providing tips on how to succeed in non-traditional careers.
From freelance graphic designers to social media influencers, Gen Z is turning to TikTok for career advice and guidance. They are following creators who are in their desired field of work, soaking up their knowledge and insights, and applying them to their career goals. With the diverse pool of content on TikTok, they can explore a wide range of career options and discover their passion or interest in a particular field.
The Impact of TikTok on Degree Switching
The traditional path of college and a career has become outdated for Gen Z. They are looking for more non-traditional means to gain the skills and knowledge required for their desired career. With the rise of digital learning platforms and online courses, many Gen Zers have started to reconsider their college degrees. And TikTok has played a significant role in their decision-making process.
According to a survey conducted by Pearson, 68% of Gen Z reported that they have changed their intended major or career path based on the career advice they received from TikTok. They are drawn to the platform’s relatable and informative content, which has led them to explore alternative career options that they previously did not consider. Some have switched their degree to match their career goals, while others have dropped out of college to focus on their entrepreneurial ventures after gaining inspiration from TikTok creators.
The Future of Career Development for Gen Z
TikTok’s impact on Gen Z’s career decisions is just the beginning. With technology constantly evolving, Gen Z will continue to seek ways to acquire knowledge and skills outside of traditional education. They will continue to turn to platforms like TikTok for career advice and guidance. This will also change the way companies recruit and hire Gen Z employees. As employers look for candidates with non-traditional backgrounds and skills, they will turn to social media platforms like TikTok to find the right fit for their organization.
Conclusion
Gen Z is known for their ability to adapt and innovate in the digital age. With TikTok, they have found a platform that not only entertains them but also helps them discover their passion and achieve their career goals. TikTok has become their go-to career advisor, leading to a major pivot in their chosen college degrees. As this generation becomes a dominant force in the workforce, their use of social media as a career resource will continue to grow and shape the future of career development.
