A job advertisement from a Chinese company has sparked widespread ridicule online for listing basic workplace necessities—such as free toilet use and lift access—as employee benefits.
The ad, which also promised “no electricity charges for overtime,” first appeared on April 29 after being shared by a popular social media account called Workplace Slackers, according to the South China Morning Post.
Though the post did not reveal the company’s name or specify the exact job title, it did provide some details about the position. The role involved order processing and required candidates to have attention to detail and proficiency in Excel.
The job offered an eight-hour workday with a one-hour break, and two possible shifts: either 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. or 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. The monthly salary during the probation period was listed as 4,000 yuan. Employees would receive four days off each month and double pay on national holidays.
What truly drew attention and led the ad to go viral was the unusual list of “benefits.” Alongside free toilet access and use of the lift, the company promised occasional team-building activities, afternoon tea, and late-night snacks. It also offered a modest salary raise of 100 yuan (approximately US$14) per month after completing one year in the job.
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Many social media users criticised the company for including such basic amenities as “benefits.” Comments like, “These so-called job benefits should be standard? How can they be listed as perks?” expressed widespread disbelief and frustration.
The Chinese job market is already challenging for workers, who often face long hours, low wages, difficult working conditions, and limited job security. Age discrimination is also a significant issue, with many individuals struggling to find employment after the age of 35.
China’s Labour Contract Law states that employees should not work more than eight hours a day or an average of 44 hours per week. Employers are also legally required to provide basic benefits, including pension, medical coverage, and unemployment insurance.
This viral job ad highlights ongoing frustrations with employment conditions and the basic standards workers expect but often find lacking.
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