Every career has a starting point. For some, it’s a conversation with a mentor. For others, it’s an internship or a part-time job. But for today’s youth—digital-first and endlessly scrolling—sometimes all it takes is one short video to ignite curiosity and set someone on a path toward a career they never considered.

Think about it: a 30-second TikTok showing what a day in your industry looks like could inspire a student who has no idea your line of work even exists. A short, authentic Instagram reel about why you love your job could plant a seed in a teenager’s mind that grows into a lifelong passion.

What Makes Short-Form Video So Powerful

Youth today spend more time watching short-form content than consuming any other type of media. But it’s not just the volume of content—it’s the style of storytelling that grabs attention and lingers. Viral TikToks and Reels share a few core elements:

• Authenticity over polish – Users crave real voices and genuine experiences, not corporate commercials.
  
• Relatable storytelling – “A day in the life” or “Things I didn’t know about my job” resonates because it’s simple, clear, and human.
  
• Visual hooks – Fast cuts, on-screen captions, and eye-catching moments in the first 3 seconds draw the viewer in.
  
• Emotion and energy – Whether it’s humor, surprise, or inspiration, feelings stick far longer than facts alone.
  
• Shareability – When a video feels relevant, students tag friends, teachers, or family—multiplying its reach.
  

These aren’t just trends; they’re powerful levers employers can pull to connect with young people where they already are.

Why Employers Should Care

The next generation of workers is out there searching, not just for jobs, but for inspiration. Many students don’t know what’s possible beyond the careers they see in their immediate circles. By posting a short, authentic video, employers can:

• Demystify the work – Show what a real day looks like in your field.
  
• Highlight career paths – Share how someone can get started in your industry, even without experience.
  
• Inspire confidence – A young person might see someone who looks like them, talks like them, and realize: “I could do this too.”
  

One video may help a student be nudged to take a course, which creates a domino effect  in that they may help to qualify them for a pathway, or a specific college program, or even an internship. 

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A Call to Action - Challenge #3 

You don’t need a production team or fancy equipment. All you need is your phone, a bit of courage, and a willingness to share. Start with these simple prompts:

• “What surprised me most when I started in this career was…”
  
• “Here’s what my job really looks like in 15 seconds.”
  
• “If I could give one piece of advice to a student considering this field, it would be…”
  

On SchooLinks you can share the video to +8million students searching careers where it will get optimized based on students’ interests and allow them get real voices from real people. Students can even ask questions back. Start by creating an account today, and complete the 3rd challenge of Workforce Development month by posting a Q&A video today.