were once solely the realm of love and lust, but Gen-Z has redefined their purpose. But now 'hooking up' on a dating app can lead to new work opportunities and even help with handy-work around the house. What was created as platforms to match people romantically have now evolved into an unconventional networking tool.

From to finding assistance with household tasks, young people are utilising dating apps for far more than romance. They are opting to use platforms like , , and Hinge in ways their creators likely never envisioned.

With traditional networking avenues feeling increasingly out of reach, Gen-Z is turning to dating as a way to advance their careers. While LinkedIn remains the professional standard, dating apps' casual and informal nature provides a unique opportunity to break the ice in ways that more corporate and formal platforms don't typically allow.

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Securing a job is increasingly challenging, not least as the current youth in the UK. Gen-Z is doing whatever they can to get a job, using everyday platforms as part of the job search and unconventional networking platforms for self-promotion. As many struggle to find employment, dating apps are emerging as an unexpected solution.

A growing number of people have now admitted to securing job opportunities through dating apps. Studies have found that . Some stumbled into career prospects through casual conversations with matches who happened to be recruiters or industry insiders. Others have used their bios as mini-resumes, highlighting professional achievements and making their intentions clear: employ me.

Students and young professionals have successfully landed internships, freelance gigs, and even full-time jobs through these platforms. One user shared how a date turned into a job referral, he ended up working at the company for two years after being introduced to the opportunity by a match.

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This unconventional approach to networking reflects the digital-savvy nature of Gen-Z, who are adept at blurring the lines between personal and professional spaces. Apps like Bumble have even recognized this shift, launching in an effort to cater to those seeking professional connections rather than romantic ones.

Beyond job hunting, dating apps are also being used as a practical solution to traditionally male-dominated domestic tasks. Women have taken to platforms like Tinder and Hinge not just for dates but for help with furniture assembly, moving heavy items, or even car repairs.

A man posted to Reddit asking if this was normal, "She (F42) wants me (M25) to come over and build furniture on first meeting. Is that a thing?" Many quickly added their two cents, "This is either a handyman fantasy or free labour, or both". In contrast, another added, "Building furniture is not normal for a first date or a third date. That's normal when you're planning to move in with someone after being with them for months or years".

The rationale? If men on dating apps promote their strength as a selling point, “6’2” and “can lift heavy things” is a common trope. So, why not take them up on it? This trend has sparked discussions about the blurred boundaries between dating and transactional interactions. Some women treat matches as temporary Airtasker alternatives. Airtasker is a marketplace where individuals post tasks they need to complete. Others, who are referred to as 'taskers,' accept these tasks in exchange for cash.

Some view this as strategic resourcefulness, while others claim it introduces additional exploitation in dating. expectations have become more transactional, with many individuals demanding specific criteria be met in order to pursue a relationship.

Dating apps have long evolved past their initial goal of finding love, and Gen-Z’s innovative approach is proof that their usage will continue to diversify. Whether this shift is a creative hack or an indictment of the current job market and labour inequalities is up for debate.

What is clear, however, is that dating apps are no longer just about romance; they’re about opportunity. Whether it’s a career, a couch move, or a casual fling, Gen-Z is proving that swiping right can mean a lot more than just a potential date.