A surprising new trend has emerged where one in three dating app users are actually on the platform for career networking and job-seeking purposes. Although many users have found success in this tactic, claiming they have gained mentorship, landed interviews, and even job offers, it presents unique challenges, especially from a human resources perspective.

Many practitioners, particularly recruiters, are wondering why workers are turning to these unconventional platforms. Research could point to the challenging job market and the desperation of the unemployed. Others state that traditional networking feels saturated or inaccessible while dating apps offer simple messaging and reach a broad audience. The rise of hybrid work and remote jobs also makes it difficult for some professionals to stand out online and meet new career connections. Since many users already spend time on dating apps, it offers ease and convenience.

So, how are job seekers using these apps? They might highlight their job interests in their dating profiles with phrases like “looking for connections in tech” or “open to new job opportunities.” They look for people who work at desirable companies that they also want to work at, or people who work in their field or in their desired role. They intentionally swipe to connect with these users professionally rather than for dating. Once matched, they message and ask for an introduction, referral, etc.

A survey conducted by ResumeBuilder.com revealed that Tinder, Bumble, Facebook Dating, and Hinge are the most commonly used by participants. Of these career users, 88% said they successfully connected with someone professionally, 43% received mentorship or advice, 39% got a job interview, 37% received a job lead or referral, and 37% got a job offer. Most survey participants stated they were upfront and honest about their intentions, with only 12% stating they were deceptive in their motives. Some reported being honest about their goals as they were already in committed relationships. The apps themselves have taken different stances on the matter. The percentage of users with career intentions over dating is higher on Grindr, and the CEO has even hired someone they met on there. Tinder, alternatively, is trying to prevent this trend by listing making personal connections and not business ones as a part of their rules and bylaws.

This approach to gaining employment blurs professional and personal boundaries, posing significant legal and reputational risks for employers. The power dynamics between the employee and the job seeker, once hired, could cause ethical dilemmas, especially if a physical relationship has occurred. Companies run the risk of claims of favoritism, conflicts of interest, and sexual harassment, particularly quid pro quo. Job seekers expose themselves to unwanted advances or conversations when mixing professional intent with a platform built for dating, and HR professionals may be forced to deal with the aftermath. Candidates who reach out to employees via dating apps may put staff in awkward positions or create liability issues. Additionally, these candidates may inadvertently create uncomfortable or inappropriate interactions once hired.  Personal information shared on dating apps could be misused if mixed with employment discussions and decisions.

This trend presents a lot of risk, but there are some proactive measures that HR professionals and leaders can take:

• Monitor Candidate Outreach Trends: Be aware of where and how candidates are trying to connect with your organization.
• Clarify Appropriate Channels: Communicate preferred professional platforms (company careers page, LinkedIn, professional networking events).
• Train Recruiters & Staff: Offer guidance on how to handle outreach from non-traditional avenues.
• Guard Against Bias: Evaluate candidates on merit, not how they reached out.

Although HR Professionals may not have control over whether prospective employees are using dating apps to get hired, they can educate current employees on the risks this way of career networking poses, which blurs professional and personal boundaries in ways that can be hard to control. There are options other than the saturated LinkedIn platform for those seeking to network. Conferences, university alumni networks, networking groups, professional associations, Chambers of Commerce, and industry-specific online groups are all ways to meet people professionally without having to put on a romantic front. As the labor market continues to be challenging for job seekers, it is important to stay on top of trends like this and their potential outcomes.

Sources: hrdive.com; forbes.com; nypost.com; latimes.com