IKEA is hiring real people to work at Roblox virtual store

Photo from 6ixBuzzTV/X

In the digital realm of Roblox, IKEA’s virtual store opens its doors to real people seeking to earn real money.

Launching on June 24, IKEA’s store on their online gaming platform Roblox will need real players who will also serve as staff.

A breakthrough in innovation that blends real-world and virtual employment, IKEA’s initiative “The Co-Worker Game” is opening its doors to applicants over 18 years-old.

Interested candidates can apply until June 16. But here’s the catch – you have to be a resident of the UK or Ireland to be eligible to apply. This work opportunity will let players earn £13.15 ($16.79) per hour with the pleasure of playing while working.

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IKEA’s job application process for Roblox

The recruitment process includes a questionnaire and will require an updated CV. Videos can also be submitted. Successful candidates will be invited to a virtual interview.

Only 10 fortunate applicants will be chosen and will start working on June 24. 

They will be designated to different areas of the store, like the Bistro and Showroom, to serve meatballs, assist virtual customers with choosing furniture and other tasks. 

“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,” Darren Taylor, IKEA’s Country People and Culture manager for UK and Ireland, told Rolling Stone. “At IKEA, there is no set route to career progression.”

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Meanwhile, Winnie Burke, head of fashion and retail partnerships at Roblox, underscores the relevance of this move. 

“Brands that connect with our engaged community will stay top of mind for a generation that considers their digital life just as important,” Burke said.

Interestingly, the virtual store staff might earn more than IKEA’s real-world employees. 

For instance, IKEA’s minimum wage in the US varies from $16-$18 per hour while the rest of the UK’s base pay is at £10.90 and London’s rate is at £11.95.

News about these job openings have already caught the attention of netizens.

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

Some X users were quick to post about applying for the position while others commented on the irony of earning more in the digital realm of Roblox compared to the real-world workplace. User @LUvvUcy wrote, “FORGET THE DEGREE JUST WORK AT IKEA ROBLOX LOL”

While IKEA’s move to hire real employees for its Roblox store may seem like a dystopian approach redefining traditional employment, it’s definitely worth exploring. 

Interested applicants may visit the IKEA website for more details.