How to prepare for the Inevitable 'Back to School' posts on LinkedIn

Brace Yourselves: The Back-to-School Brigade is Coming

It is the time of year when LinkedIn transforms into a virtual scrapbook of uniformed children, awkward smiles and proud parents who apparently believe we’re all clamouring for updates on little Timmy’s return to Year 4. It's that time of year when the Back-to-School Brigade dusts off their smartphones to bombard us with the most riveting content LinkedIn has to offer. Forget job postings, industry insights or even the odd motivational quote - you’re about to be flooded with a tsunami of “first day back” photos.

So, how do we prepare for this annual onslaught of mini-people in oversized blazers? Fear not loyal Recruiter-Lifers, for we’ve put together a survival guide to help you navigate the minefield of school uniform selfies and proud parents without losing your sanity, or your will to recruit.

1. Set Your Filters to ‘Uninterested’

There’s an easy way to avoid the flood of back-to-school posts..... Simply unfollow every parent on LinkedIn. But unless you’re planning on deleting half your connections, this isn’t exactly practical. So, instead, engage in a bit of digital distancing. Scroll past those posts with the same urgency you’d apply to a candidate with a five-year employment gap. Not worth the deep dive, trust us.

2. Bingo, Anyone?

Make a game out of it. Create a Back-to-School Bingo card with all the classics:

• The overly enthusiastic “Can’t believe they’re growing up so fast!”
• The obligatory “Where did the summer go?”
• The artistic (but slightly nauseating) lunchbox layout. First one to a full house gets a bottle of wine. You’ll need it.

3. Commentary: Keep it Real

If you do feel compelled to engage with these posts (perhaps you’ve lost a bet or are simply a glutton for punishment), we suggest a healthy dose of sarcasm to keep you sane.

• “Wow, I’ve never seen a child go to school before! What an extraordinary event!”
• “Is that a uniform? I thought they were off to Hogwarts!” Remember, it’s not rude if it’s funny. And if they don’t think it’s funny, well, maybe they’ll think twice before posting next year.
• You can even use the tried and tested 'No One Cares' Intro below

4. *The "Accidental" Like

Be careful with those thumbs. One slip, and suddenly you’re endorsing content you’d rather wipe from your memory. But if it happens, lean into it. Comment with gusto: “Best post I’ve seen all year!” They’ll never know you’re being ironic, and you can laugh into your coffee knowing you’ve added a touch of chaos to their big moment.

5. Your Own ‘Back-to-School’ Post

Beat them at their own game. Share a post of yourself with the caption: “Back to school for me too! Here’s a photo of me returning to the office after lunch.” Bonus points if you include a picture of you with a backpack and lunchbox.

6. Embrace the Darkness

When in doubt, remember: this too shall pass. Much like the enthusiasm of that one candidate who swore they were perfect for the role but ghosted after one interview, the back-to-school post frenzy will die down soon. Hold on tight, grit your teeth and remember, it could be worse. It could be Christmas jumper day already.

So, as you wade through the sea of mini-school portraits and ‘first day’ declarations, remember you’re not alone. We’re all in this together, rolling our eyes in unison and wishing LinkedIn had an ‘enough already’ button. Until next time, keep your sense of humour sharp, your sarcasm sharper and your wine glass full.

Peace Out Recruiter-Lifers.

#recruiterlife