IKEA is launching a new virtual reality store on Roblox, offering Brits £13.15 an hour to work in this innovative environment. This hourly rate matches what employees earn at IKEA’s London branches. The Swedish retail giant is seeking to fill 10 positions, providing an exciting opportunity for individuals to immerse themselves in the virtual working world of IKEA.
IKEA is coming to Roblox. Individuals aged 18 and over in the UK and the Republic of Ireland can now apply to work in the virtual store. Those selected will be paid £13.15/€14.80 per hour. pic.twitter.com/KvAAVzRmcc
— RBXNews (@RBXNews_) June 3, 2024
Job Details and Application Process
The job listings, which have already generated buzz on social media platforms like TikTok, invite applicants from the UK and Ireland aged 18 and over to apply. Successful candidates will start their roles on June 24th. In addition to the paid positions, volunteers can also participate in various activities within the virtual store, such as serving IKEA’s iconic meatballs or managing showrooms.
Darren Taylor, Country People and Culture Manager at IKEA UK and Ireland, expressed enthusiasm about this initiative:
“We’re excited to be the first brand to launch paid work on Roblox to showcase how we do careers differently, bringing our unique careers philosophy to life.”
He added, “At IKEA, there is no set route to career progression. Our co-workers are able to change roles, switch departments, and grow in any direction they choose, both in the game or in the real world. There are many ways to learn and grow at IKEA, and that’s what IKEA on Roblox is all about.”
IKEA’s Innovative Approach to Careers
This initiative is part of IKEA’s broader strategy to attract a new generation of workers by offering flexible career paths both in the virtual and real world. The virtual reality store, set in the popular online game Roblox, is named Careers Done Different and is aimed at showcasing IKEA’s unique career opportunities.
Roblox, a platform known for its user-generated games and immersive experiences, provides an ideal environment for IKEA to engage with a younger audience. By integrating their career opportunities into this virtual space, IKEA aims to demonstrate the versatility and dynamism of working with the company.
Public Reactions and Social Media Buzz
The announcement has received a mix of reactions online. Many users in the UK and Ireland are thrilled about the opportunity, while some Swedish fans of IKEA expressed disappointment that the program is not available in Sweden. One user commented, “Why can’t you play this in Sweden? It was Sweden who created IKEA.” Another added, “I’m in Sweden. This should be available here. IKEA is literally Swedish.”
just got an interview for ikea roblox pic.twitter.com/BdIqVuDOVc
— matcha flum pebble (@hissinglawn) June 6, 2024
Despite the mixed reactions, the initiative highlights IKEA’s commitment to innovative career development and engaging with a younger audience through popular platforms like Roblox. This venture not only emphasizes IKEA’s forward-thinking approach but also its willingness to explore unconventional methods to attract and retain talent.
The Future of Work at IKEA
This move by IKEA is part of a larger trend of integrating technology into the workplace. By leveraging virtual reality and platforms like Roblox, IKEA is positioning itself at the forefront of this transformation. The virtual store allows employees to gain valuable experience in customer service, management, and other retail functions in a simulated environment, which can translate into real-world skills.
“We believe that learning and development should be accessible and engaging,” Taylor explained.
“Our virtual store on Roblox is a testament to our commitment to providing diverse and enriching career paths for our co-workers.”
How will virtual reality transform the future of work?
IKEA’s venture into virtual reality jobs on Roblox is a pioneering step in the retail industry, offering unique opportunities for career growth and engagement in an innovative setting. If you’re excited about this initiative or have thoughts to share, we’d love to hear from you. Leave a comment below!
Image courtesy of Roblox Corporation.
