I love a good hire-me stunt. And this is a great hire-me stunt.

Or rather, a hire-us stunt.

Two recent graduates, calling themselves Very Serious Partners, announced this week they've claimed the TikTok user names of "the U.K.'s best agencies" and will be holding them hostage until one of the shops pays the ransom: which is to say, hires them.

While it might sound menacing on first blush, the prank is a harmless one that shows a keen insight: that many agencies have been slow to claim their own names on the highly popular TikTok platform. Could these agencies sue to claim the names? Sure, but what's the fun in that?

Agencies whose names were claimed include Mother London, Lucky Generals, AMV BBDO and BBH London. 

So far, it seems to be off to a strong start. TBWA\London expressed interest, and one agency, Battenhall, even turned the tables by claiming the duo's own user name on TikTok.

What are some of your favorite ways you've seen talent get attention from a potential employer? Let me know at the email below or at @Griner on Twitter.

David Griner
Creative and Innovation Editor, Adweek
David.Griner@Adweek.com

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