The Rise of The Curator Economy: Will TikTok Kill LinkedIn for Gen Z?

The Rise of The Curator Economy: Will TikTok Kill LinkedIn for Gen Z?

In today's digital age, information is abundant. With just a few clicks, we can access a vast amount of data on any given topic. However, the value lies not just in the information itself, but in the context in which it is presented. This is where curation comes into play. Curation is the act of carefully selecting and organizing content to create a meaningful narrative or experience for the audience.

For a while, it seemed like AI-powered algorithms would replace human curation. After all, machines can process and analyze data at a much faster rate than humans. But what AI lacks is intent. Humans curate with a purpose. They bring their unique perspective, creativity, and understanding of their audience to the table. And it is this human touch that has led to the resurgence of the curator economy.

The curator economy is a subset of the larger information commerce industry. It consists of individuals who curate content, whether it be articles, videos, or social media posts, and provide value by presenting it in a meaningful and engaging way. Platforms like Substack and Glasp have become the go-to places for curators and writers who want to grow their audience and communicate directly with readers.

But what does this have to do with TikTok and LinkedIn? Well, TikTok, the popular short-form video app, has recently launched a new feature called Resumes. This feature allows users to create video resumes and apply for jobs. It taps into Gen Z's desire for authenticity and allows candidates to showcase their energy and creativity in a way that is hard to communicate through a traditional paper resume.

On the surface, it may seem like TikTok's Resumes feature could pose a threat to LinkedIn, the professional networking platform. After all, video resumes are much more dynamic and engaging than their static counterparts. However, there are a few factors to consider.

Firstly, while candidates can submit a link to their resume video, employers can also click on their profiles to see what else they've published on TikTok. This opens up the possibility of employers stumbling upon content that may not align with their company's values or the candidate's professional image. Do you really want potential employers going through your TikTok account?

Secondly, creating and editing a video resume can be intimidating, especially for candidates who are not used to appearing on camera. It requires a certain level of confidence and skills in video production. This could potentially create a barrier for entry for some candidates who may not feel comfortable or have access to the necessary resources.

So, while TikTok's Resumes feature may have its benefits, it is unlikely to completely replace LinkedIn as the go-to platform for professional networking and job hunting. Instead, it adds another layer of creativity and personalization to the job application process.

In conclusion, the rise of the curator economy and the emergence of features like TikTok's Resumes highlight the importance of context and authenticity in today's digital landscape. While AI may be able to process vast amounts of information, it is the human touch that adds value and creates meaningful connections with the audience.

For aspiring curators and job seekers, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Embrace your unique perspective: As a curator, your value lies in your ability to bring your own perspective and creativity to the content you curate. Don't be afraid to showcase your personality and point of view.

2. Experiment with different mediums: TikTok's Resumes feature shows that there is room for creativity and personalization in traditionally formal processes like job applications. Explore different mediums, such as videos or interactive presentations, to stand out from the crowd.

3. Maintain a balance between authenticity and professionalism: While it's important to be authentic and true to yourself, remember that your online presence can have real-world consequences, especially when it comes to job hunting. Be mindful of the content you share and ensure it aligns with your professional goals.

In a world where information is abundant, the role of the curator is more important than ever. Whether it's curating content for a niche audience or creating a video resume to showcase your skills, curation adds value and creates meaningful connections. So, embrace the curator economy, but also be mindful of the context and intent behind the content you create and consume.