Work and Play in IKEA’s Virtual World

Work and Play in IKEA’s Virtual World

Work and Play in IKEA’s Virtual World

IKEA, the renowned Swedish retailer, is venturing into a new realm by hiring and paying Roblox players to work in their upcoming virtual store, The Co-Worker Game. This innovative project is set to be released on June 24th, 2024, and will offer gamers the opportunity to immerse themselves in various sections of the game, such as the Showroom and Bistro, replicating the experience of physical store spaces.

Rather than simply playing a game, the selected gamers will take on virtual roles where they assist customers in choosing furniture, designing spaces, and even serving virtual meatballs and drinks. This unique remote working opportunity provides flexibility for the gamers, who will be paid an hourly rate of 13.15 pounds or 14.80 euros.

What sets this job apart is the potential for growth and development within IKEA. While the retailer initially offers a limited contract, there is the possibility of moving departments, improving skills, and even being promoted. This indicates that successful gamers may have the opportunity to join the physical store team in the future.

It’s important to note that this opportunity is exclusively available to residents of the UK and Republic of Ireland. The application process began on June 3rd, 2024, and will run until June 16th. Shortlisted applicants will then participate in virtual interviews between June 14th and 18th to determine their suitability for the role.

The Co-Worker Game is part of IKEA’s initiative, “Careers Done Different,” aimed at attracting a new generation of co-workers through creative approaches. Aspiring candidates are encouraged to fill out an application form, answer a series of questions, and submit an updated CV. They can even submit videos showcasing their skills and experiences. If successful, they will progress to a digital interview.

In addition to receiving payment, Roblox gamers working in The Co-Worker Game also have the opportunity to win IKEA User-Generated Content. This refers to items and assets that can be created by users, including models and audio. The development of IKEA on Roblox is undertaken by The Gang, a Swedish game design company.

Mark your calendars for June 24th, 2024 when IKEA on Roblox opens its virtual doors to eager shoppers and gamers alike. This exciting venture demonstrates IKEA’s willingness to embrace new platforms and engage with a diverse audience in unique and creative ways.

Additional facts:
– The Co-Worker Game on Roblox is just one of the virtual initiatives that IKEA has been exploring. They have previously released a virtual reality kitchen experience and an augmented reality app that allows customers to visualize furniture in their homes before making a purchase.
– The Co-Worker Game aims to provide a realistic shopping experience by replicating physical store spaces, allowing customers to browse and interact with furniture items just as they would in a real store.
– IKEA’s decision to hire and pay Roblox players is a strategic move to tap into the large user base of the platform, which has over 150 million monthly active users worldwide.
– The initiative “Careers Done Different” is part of IKEA’s broader efforts to attract and retain a younger generation of workers, who are drawn to non-traditional work opportunities and creative approaches to employment.

The most important questions:
1. What is The Co-Worker Game?
2. How can Roblox players apply for the job in the virtual store?
3. What is the payment rate for the selected gamers?
4. Are there opportunities for growth and advancement within IKEA?
5. How long is the application process and when will the virtual interviews take place?
6. What is IKEA’s “Careers Done Different” initiative?
7. What other virtual initiatives has IKEA explored in the past?
8. How many users does Roblox have worldwide?

Key challenges or controversies:
1. One potential challenge is ensuring the quality of customer service in a virtual setting. Since the gamers will be interacting with customers and assisting them in their shopping experience, it is important to maintain a high level of professionalism and knowledge about IKEA’s products.
2. There may be concerns about the integration of virtual work with physical store operations. As successful gamers have the opportunity to join the physical store team, it will be important to seamlessly transition their skills and knowledge from the virtual world to the real-world store.
3. The exclusivity of the opportunity to residents of the UK and Republic of Ireland may be seen as a limitation for gamers from other countries who may be interested in this unique working experience.

Advantages:
1. The Co-Worker Game provides a flexible remote working opportunity for Roblox players, allowing them to earn money from the comfort of their own homes.
2. Gamers have the chance to develop their skills, explore different departments, and potentially be promoted within IKEA, which offers opportunities for career growth and advancement.
3. This initiative allows IKEA to tap into the large user base of Roblox and engage with a new generation of customers and potential employees.
4. By embracing virtual platforms, IKEA can showcase their products and engage with customers in innovative and creative ways, enhancing the overall brand experience.

Disadvantages:
1. The virtual nature of the job may lack the personal interaction and human touch that customers may expect in a physical store setting.
2. The exclusivity of the opportunity to residents of the UK and Republic of Ireland may limit the diversity of the workforce and the perspectives brought to the virtual store.
3. There may be challenges in maintaining consistent quality of customer service across all gamers, as their knowledge and expertise may vary.

Related links:
IKEA Official Website
Roblox Official Website

The source of the article is from the blog enp.gr