Bumble is a dating app created with the idea of allowing women to initiate contact with men. As of last month, the app added a new feature that allows its users to search for mentors and colleagues in using a profile separate from their romantic one. Bumble is the first in a growing line of apps to add this type of feature. Last year, eHarmony Inc. launched Elevated Careers, a search tool that connects users with prospective employers. Even Tinder has designed an exclusive networking app for members of Forbes Media's 30 Under 30 lists.
Bumble has marketed its products, Bumble Bizz as way for women to take the reigns of their careers in a safe, casual setting. Users will be able to create a separate professional profile and browse through samples work samples of potential business connections. When two users swipe right for each other's profiles, the women will initiate contact.
The feature's biggest problem is persuading married and partnered people to use a dating app for networking opportunities. This also comes in light of the recent wave of silence breaking on sexual harassment in the workplace. Another problem is the difference in experience and business level between users. The majority of people using the app for networking purposes are young people looking for mentors and partners to start new businesses with. Those with enough experience for mentorship positions are not usually looking for interns.
The idea of using a dating app for networking is rather unorthodox but I feel as though the business game is continually evolving. Platforms such as Bumble Bizz can be great opportunities to form comfortable business connections without the stress and intimidation that comes from things such as career fairs. However, lines can be easily blurred when you are using such a personal way of connecting. Either way, this is another step in the evolution of how we market ourselves and our ideas.
https://www.wsj.com/articles/new-in-bumbles-dating-app-swipe-right-for-business-contacts-1510153200
Traditional dating apps creating business profiles allows businesses to expand their target market. However, meeting a potential work connection via a social networking site starts you out on a more casual footing rather than a professional relationship.
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