In an audacious demonstration of creativity, job seeker Chris Serrano secured his dream job after literally jumping into the opportunity – by skydiving with a sign soliciting work. Serrano, a former creative director from Florida, utilized the power of social media to grab attention, posting a video of his airborne adventure on LinkedIn, sign in hand, which read “Open4Work”.
Accompanying the post, he wrote, “I got laid off last week. So I will be freefalling until I find a new gig – literally. If you’re looking for an award-winning creative that works hard, takes risks, and knows how to pack a parachute, reach out.” The innovative approach quickly went viral, garnering more than 47,000 likes on LinkedIn alone.
Serrano confessed he had hoped for the best but was amazed by the reach and resonance his daring job hunt had achieved.
Among the thousands who viewed the leap of faith was Jack Peagam, the 28-year-old Co-founder and CEO of Manchester-based Linkup. Seeing potential in Serrano’s audacity, Peagam extended a job offer in a manner befitting the adventurous nature of Serrano’s appeal – through a skydiving video response, sign included: “Hey Chris, sorry 2 see you got laid off. We’ve got work 4 U”.
Two weeks later, the daring duo published another video, this time showcasing Serrano signing his new contract with Linkup while in a freefall mid-skydive. The thriving app encourages users to meet in real life, promoting real connections based on shared interests, hobbies, and passions.
Peagam expressed his enthusiasm about the addition of Serrano to his team, stating, “Chris’ job seeking ad embodied everything I appreciate in creative talent – it was audacious, brave, and exhibited his penchant for taking risks. I eagerly anticipate how his daring mindset will propel our thriving app to even greater heights… possibly even into space.”
Overwhelmed by the support he received, Serrano expressed his gratitude and relief, “Losing my job was a nerve-racking experience, but sometimes all you can do is take a leap of faith from a plane.”
Launched in February 2023, Linkup quickly amassed a significant user base in Manchester. The app’s next venture, according to Peagam, is to expand into London, with a vision to be the ultimate solution for those seeking to form genuine friendships in the real world, engaging in shared passions and experiences.