Weibo Users Warn Graduates of Potential Exploitation in Management Trainee Roles and Call for Better Regulation in Local Markets

One user pointed out that unless one becomes an entrepreneur, there is no true freedom in any job. The user's company, for instance, does not have management trainees but instead rotates employees through various departments, with the ultimate destination often being sales. The user laments this situation, stating that it feels like a response to a call for "full-scale marketing" (Weibo, 2024). Another user shared the story of a PhD graduate who opted for a management trainee position instead of a technical post. The user offered advice to the graduate, suggesting a role as an industry analyst where he could gradually gain experience. However, the graduate chose the management role and now finds himself in a sales position (Weibo, 2024). The user also highlighted that management trainees, more often than not, end up in sales roles. This sentiment was echoed by a Weibo user who warned that such roles may lead to simply "selling goods" in the end (Weibo, 2024).

In addition to these anecdotes, another topic that has sparked controversy is the issue of "ghost" or "fake" scales in local markets. A recent incident in the Jiangsu province involving a vendor using a "ghost scale" led to the vendor and the market supervisor being fined and detained. Despite the punishment, both parties denied any wrongdoing and even threatened those who exposed the issue (Weibo, 2024). Such incidents highlight the need for effective regulation and consumer protection. A commentator noted that when problems arise, some markets choose to blame the whistleblowers and side with the unscrupulous vendors instead of addressing the issue. This behavior, the commentator argues, further undermines public trust and market order (Weibo, 2024).

The broader context of these issues suggests that Chinese graduates face significant challenges in the job market. In response, the government has introduced measures to protect graduates from exploitative practices (Weibo, 2024). In conclusion, the trending topics on Weibo reflect the struggles and concerns of Chinese graduates in the job market. With many becoming management trainees, there is a risk of being exploited or ending up in sales roles. Meanwhile, the issue of "ghost scales" highlights the need for better regulation and consumer protection. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how these challenges will be addressed.