We’ve previously written about the phenomenon of catfishing, or «career fishing.» This phenomenon involves Gen Z workers accepting job offers but then not showing up on their first day without informing their employers. The report highlights that this is a growing act of defiance among workers under the age of 27.
We’ve previously written about the phenomenon of catfishing, or «career fishing.» This phenomenon involves Gen Z workers accepting job offers but then not showing up on their first day without informing their employers. The report highlights that this is a growing act of defiance among workers under the age of 27.
dev.ua asked Ukrainian recruitment specialists whether they have encountered this, and whether this trend may become popular among Ukrainian candidates.
This trend with a funny name certainly attracts attention. However, we do not see its popularity in Ukraine. And, if we are realistic, it is unlikely to catch on in the near future. The talent market is currently difficult for both businesses and candidates: it is not easy to hire a great specialist, as well as to find a place of work that will meet the expectations of a specialist. However, the «act of defiance» in the style of this trend clearly does not fit into the Ukrainian work culture.
Yes, getting a good offer is much more difficult now than it was three years ago. Young people understand this well, so they approach their job choice more consciously. In today’s realities, a desirable position is a value that is not worth risking in vain.
An additional factor that significantly affects the situation in Ukraine is regular layoffs in various areas of activity. Of course, there are many cases of «soft layoffs», with the payment of several months of compensation, the transfer of equipment, etc. However, such instability adds even more weight to the offer received after a difficult selection.
That’s why at Railsware we pay great attention to motivating candidates and checking their readiness for long-term cooperation. Before making an offer, we analyze references, use a competency matrix, and offer several selection stages, which for some positions include a whole test day. This allows us to see how ready the candidate is to be part of the team. In turn, during this process, specialists can see what their team, tasks, and working day will look like — and make a choice with maximum information.
It is important to emphasize that the verification of values compatibility should be mutual on the part of both the employer and the candidate. The future employee should read reviews, research materials on different platforms and study the company’s approaches. Otherwise, it can lead to misunderstandings, disappointments or even conflicts.
This approach works for everyone, regardless of the candidate’s age, experience, or location. Multiple selection stages, tailored to the specific position and product, allow for a deeper assessment of competencies, motivation, and skills. This not only helps to find the best candidates, but also to make sure that they are truly interested and ready for long-term cooperation.
Even if this trend one day reaches Ukraine, a well-thought-out recruiting process will easily help avoid unpleasant surprises.
It ensures that only those who truly want to share its values and be part of a common cause will join the team.
In our experience, there are no cases of catfishing. Perhaps one of the reasons is that we cooperate with specialists of the Middle+ level and above, and in this category, candidates are aware and do not play such games. Personally, I believe that catfishing will not become a trend in Ukrainian IT. I do not exclude isolated cases, but as a widespread trend — it is unlikely.
Ukrainian society is conscious, especially our youth. In addition, we have enough internal problems and people simply do not have time for such «entertainment». Specialists who start working in IT understand what they want and what path they have chosen, so I am sure that even the buzzers will not pick up this trend.
Zoomers have invented a new trend: showing up for work and disappearing after the first day. This phenomenon has already been called «career catfishing.» Young people apply for vacancies, go through interviews, receive offers, and then simply ignore calls and messages from companies.
This trend has gained popularity among buzzers as a way to remind employers that the job market is not just dictated by companies, but also the right of candidates to set their own rules of the game. According to the younger generation, it is a symbolic act of taking back control. It is a kind of buzzer response to endless tests, multiple interview stages and silence from recruiters.
It’s a good thing I haven’t encountered this yet. But reading about this trend, I understand that it’s not only a challenge for recruiters, but also a signal for all of us: recruiting processes should be as transparent and efficient as possible, and mutual respect should be two-way. Because recruiting is not only about choosing a company, but also about choosing a candidate.
