It might have been unheard of a few years ago, but today, China's digital sector is busy churning new jobs and employing millions of people across the country. Just so-- as the government continues to step up efforts to restructure the economy, the digital industry just might be the one to keep it afloat.
Gong Xiaopei is one of the people China's burgeoning digital economy has helped. The 21-year-old works as a "pickup worker." Dressed in a black suit, an orange tie, and a smile, Gong helps people to find cars. She spends most of her time in Capital International Airport.
"Our job is to help car-hailers find the rides they have booked as soon as they get off planes. Most of them are first-time visitors to Beijing," explained Gong in an interview with China Daily.
Another individual who has benefited from China's digital sector is Zhang Dayi, a former model. In 2014, she opened a shop in 2014, offering her services as a makeup, wardrobe, and hairdo consultant. She now sells garments in her store.
A Different Career Move for the Young Chinese
According to Shen Meng, director of a boutique investment bank called Chanson & Co, young people are attracted to these jobs since they offer freedom and flexibility.
"Compared with previous generations, who prioritized salaries, young people are increasingly in favor of positions that are intertwined with their hobbies," Shen told China Daily.
Aside from cyber celebrities and pickup workers, the digital sector has also created a demand for app developers, game testers, and voice actors. Traditional industries like the logistics sector have also been given a new lease at life, thanks to the e-commerce boom.
"As information technologies continue revolutionizing the retail, entertainment, finance, manufacturing and other industries, China's digital economy will reach $16 trillion by 2035, with 415 million jobs created accumulatively," a report by Boston Consulting Group stated.