Sink Your Teeth Into Success: What Labubu’s Naughty Grin Can Teach Businesses, HR, and Job Seekers

Labubu, the mischievous, sharp-toothed character, is more than just a toy—it’s an artful creation by Hong Kong-based artist Kasing Lung and has taken the world by storm thanks to its limited-edition releases through Pop Mart, a global leader in designer collectibles. Labubu is part of The Monsters series, a quirky collection of characters with distinct personalities that have captivated the hearts of collectors. Pop Mart’s brilliant marketing strategy, which includes scarcity and exclusivity, has turned Labubu into an iconic figure in the toy world.

One major highlight of Labubu’s international popularity was when BLACKPINK’s Lisa, a global superstar, was spotted with a Labubu collectible. Lisa’s influence helped catapult the toy’s notoriety to a broader audience, especially her millions of followers. Suddenly, it wasn’t just about toy collectors—it was about fashion icons, celebrities, and influencers all joining the Labubu hype.

Labubu’s rise from niche toy to viral sensation offers valuable insights for businesses, HR professionals, and job seekers. From embracing uniqueness to using scarcity and storytelling to drive engagement, Labubu’s journey provides lessons that go far beyond the toy world and into the realm of personal and professional success. Let’s explore how you can sink your teeth into these strategies and apply them in your own career or business.

1. Be Irresistibly Unique

Labubu’s charm lies in its distinct appearance. Unlike other plush toys that rely on being soft and cute, Labubu stands out with its odd, somewhat creepy, yet lovable design. It doesn’t try to fit the mold of conventional plush toys—it dares to be different.

For Businesses

In a market flooded with products, standing out can be challenging. However, companies that dare to be different can capture customer loyalty. A prime example of this is Tesla. When Tesla first emerged in the automotive industry, it didn’t follow the traditional car manufacturer’s playbook. Instead, it focused on building high-quality electric vehicles that were not only environmentally friendly but also sleek and technologically advanced. By setting itself apart from conventional car manufacturers, Tesla created a new category in the industry. Today, it is not only a leader in the electric vehicle market but also a symbol of innovation and forward-thinking.

Similarly, Apple has built its brand on offering products that are user-friendly and beautifully designed. Instead of competing solely on price or technical specifications, Apple distinguishes itself by creating products that offer a seamless experience with an emphasis on design, software integration, and ecosystem connectivity.

For businesses, the key takeaway from Labubu, Tesla, and Apple is to identify what makes you different and focus on that. Are your products or services eco-friendly, tech-savvy, or incredibly user-friendly? Whatever it is, embrace and highlight those qualities.

For HR and Recruiters

In the world of recruitment, employer branding plays a huge role in attracting top talent. Companies like Google and Netflix have cultivated employer brands that stand out by highlighting their innovative work cultures. Google is known for offering creative workspaces, while Netflix is praised for its commitment to employee autonomy and trust. These companies have built brands that make them attractive places to work, drawing in candidates who align with their values and culture.

Recruiters can learn from these companies by communicating what makes their organization a great place to work. Is your company known for career growth, innovation, or work-life balance? Highlighting these unique features in job postings and interviews will help attract candidates who are aligned with your company’s values and are excited to be a part of your journey.

For Job Seekers

As a job seeker, it’s crucial to highlight what makes you stand out from other candidates. Instead of simply listing qualifications, use your resume and LinkedIn profile to tell a story about your unique skills, experiences, and personality.

For example, Hyer SG often advises candidates to focus on their standout achievements or unique skill sets. One candidate, a software developer, didn’t just list technical skills on their resume—they showcased their work on a niche blockchain project that very few others in their field had worked on. This not only highlighted their technical expertise but also positioned them as a unique candidate for companies looking to explore blockchain technology.

2. Scarcity and Urgency Drive Action

Labubu’s limited-edition releases have created a sense of urgency among collectors. People are willing to queue for hours or even camp out to get their hands on these rare figures. This scarcity has only increased Labubu’s desirability, showing the power of exclusivity and FOMO (Fear of Missing Out).

For Businesses

Creating scarcity can be a powerful marketing tool. For example, luxury brands like Hermès have long used scarcity to drive demand for their products. The Birkin Bag is one of the most coveted items in the fashion world, and part of its allure is the difficulty in acquiring one. Hermès only produces a limited number of these bags each year, and even those with the financial means to purchase one often have to wait months or even years. This scarcity has turned the Birkin Bag into a status symbol, further driving demand.

Another example is Supreme, the streetwear brand that has mastered the art of the limited drop. By releasing small quantities of clothing and accessories in short bursts, Supreme has built a dedicated following of fans who are eager to purchase the latest item before it sells out.

For businesses, scarcity can be introduced through limited-time offers, exclusive memberships, or even product drops that create excitement and drive sales.

For HR and Recruiters

In recruitment, scarcity can create a sense of urgency among candidates. When advertising a job, HR professionals can highlight the uniqueness of the opportunity—whether it’s the chance to work on groundbreaking projects, the limited availability of positions, or the exclusive benefits offered. When candidates feel like they are competing for a limited spot, they are more likely to apply quickly and enthusiastically.

For example, Hyer SG works with clients to emphasize roles that have exclusive perks, such as the chance to work remotely or participate in company-sponsored international conferences. By showcasing these exclusive benefits, recruiters can create urgency and attract candidates who value these opportunities.

For Job Seekers

As a job seeker, you can use the concept of scarcity to your advantage by positioning yourself as a rare find. Highlight skills or experiences that are in demand but difficult to come by. For example, if you have expertise in an emerging technology, make sure to emphasize that in your resume. By presenting yourself as someone who brings something unique to the table, you create urgency among recruiters to hire you before someone else does.

3. Tell a Compelling Story

One of the reasons people are drawn to Labubu is that it’s more than just a toy—it’s part of a larger world created by Kasing Lung. Fans aren’t just buying a figure; they’re buying into the story of “The Monsters,” a collection of characters that live in an imaginative, rich universe.

For Businesses

Storytelling is a powerful way to build brand loyalty. Customers are more likely to connect with a brand that tells a compelling story. Nike has long been known for its ability to weave narratives into its marketing. The “Just Do It” campaign, for instance, is more than just a slogan—it’s a call to action that resonates with people on a deeper level. Nike’s ads often tell stories of athletes overcoming obstacles, pushing boundaries, and achieving greatness, which aligns with the brand’s message of empowerment.

Similarly, Patagonia uses storytelling to highlight its commitment to sustainability. Through its marketing campaigns, Patagonia tells the story of how its products are made with the environment in mind, creating a loyal customer base that values the company’s dedication to ethical business practices.

For HR and Recruiters

Recruitment is no longer just about listing job qualifications. Candidates want to know the story behind the company they are applying to. They want to understand its mission, values, and the impact they will have if they join the team.

One company that has embraced storytelling in its recruitment process is Airbnb. Instead of just posting job openings, Airbnb shares stories of its employees and how they have contributed to the company’s mission of creating a world where anyone can belong anywhere. This approach helps Airbnb attract candidates who are not only qualified but also deeply aligned with its mission.

Hyer SG advises its clients to showcase employee stories in job listings and interviews, helping candidates see how they can be part of something bigger.

For Job Seekers

As a job seeker, your career is a story waiting to be told. Instead of just listing job titles and responsibilities, tell a story about your professional journey. What challenges have you overcome? How have your experiences shaped who you are as a professional? By crafting a narrative around your career, you become more than just a set of qualifications—you become a person with a unique journey and a vision for the future.

One example is a client Hyer SG worked with who was transitioning from finance to a career in tech. Instead of just listing their skills, they told the story of how they became passionate about technology through a side project they worked on while in finance. This narrative helped them stand out to employers and ultimately land a job at a tech startup.

4. Leverage FOMO (Fear of Missing Out)

Labubu’s rise to fame is fueled by the psychological phenomenon of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). When people see others sharing photos of their Labubu collectibles on social media, they feel the urge to get one before they miss out on the experience. This sense of urgency propels people to act quickly, whether it’s queuing up to buy the latest Labubu release or paying extra to snag one before it sells out.

For Businesses

Businesses can use FOMO to their advantage by creating experiences or products that make customers feel like they’re missing out if they don’t act. A perfect example of this is Coca-Cola’s Share a Coke campaign. The campaign personalized Coke bottles with people’s names and encouraged consumers to find and share a bottle with their name. It sparked a massive social media frenzy, with people sharing their personalized Coke bottles and tagging friends. This sense of personalization and exclusivity generated excitement and drove sales, all fueled by FOMO.

Another successful example is Spotify’s Wrapped campaign. Each year, Spotify users eagerly anticipate their personalized year-end music stats, which summarize their listening habits over the year. The FOMO effect kicks in when users share their Wrapped reports on social media, prompting others to check their own and compare. This not only keeps existing users engaged but also draws in new users who don’t want to miss out on the experience.

For businesses, creating moments where customers feel like they’ll miss out if they don’t engage can generate buzz, increase sales, and build a loyal community. Whether it’s through limited-time promotions, user-generated content, or exclusive experiences, FOMO is a powerful motivator.

For HR and Recruiters

Recruitment isn’t just about posting job openings; it’s about creating excitement around your company. Just like how Labubu fans fear missing out on the latest limited-edition toy, job seekers should feel excited about the possibility of working for your company. HR professionals can showcase their workplace culture by sharing employee stories, company events, and exciting projects on social media or job platforms.

For example, Google is known for sharing snippets of its unique work environment, employee perks, and groundbreaking projects. By doing so, they create FOMO for potential candidates who want to be part of such a vibrant and dynamic company culture.

Companies can create similar engagement by giving candidates a peek behind the scenes through videos, testimonials, and social media updates, which create a desire in job seekers to be part of that exciting work environment.

For Job Seekers

Job seekers can also create a sense of FOMO around their personal brand. Keep your LinkedIn profile updated, post about industry events you’re attending, share your thoughts on trends, and display the exciting projects you’re working on. When recruiters or hiring managers see that you’re actively engaged in your field and building a strong personal brand, they’ll feel the urgency to connect with you before someone else does.

One example comes from a software engineer who regularly posted about their involvement in open-source projects and conference presentations. By showcasing their work and expertise online, they generated attention from recruiters who feared missing out on hiring such a proactive and engaged candidate.

5. Build a Community Around Your Brand

Labubu’s success isn’t just about clever marketing—it’s about the passionate community of fans that has grown around the toy. Fans share their collections, discuss new releases, and connect with others who share their enthusiasm. This sense of belonging and community is a powerful driver of loyalty.

For Businesses

Building a community around your brand fosters customer loyalty and transforms customers into brand advocates. Companies like Nike have successfully created communities around their products by engaging their customers in meaningful ways. Nike’s Run Club and Training Club apps allow users to track their fitness progress, connect with other athletes, and access personalized coaching. By offering value beyond just products, Nike has built a strong community of loyal customers who are more likely to stick with the brand.

Another great example is Harley-Davidson, which has cultivated a strong sense of community through its Harley Owners Group (HOG). HOG allows Harley owners to connect with each other, share their experiences, and participate in exclusive events. This community not only drives brand loyalty but also strengthens the emotional connection that customers have with the Harley-Davidson brand.

For businesses, creating a platform where customers can engage with each other, share their experiences, and feel part of a larger community can significantly increase customer retention and advocacy.

For HR and Recruiters

Building a sense of community within your company is just as important for recruitment and retention. When employees feel a sense of belonging, they’re more likely to stay and advocate for the company. Companies like HubSpot and Salesforce excel at fostering community through internal networks, employee resource groups, and collaborative tools.

Creating a community-driven culture helps attract candidates who value teamwork and collaboration. Highlighting your company’s commitment to building strong, inclusive teams can set you apart from other employers. Regularly sharing stories of team accomplishments, highlighting diversity initiatives, or showcasing company events can create a sense of excitement and belonging for both current employees and prospective candidates.

For Job Seekers

For job seekers, community is essential. Building and nurturing a professional network is one of the most effective ways to find new opportunities, learn about job openings, and get referrals. Attending industry events, participating in online communities, and engaging with peers on social media are all ways to build your professional community.

For instance, a marketing professional who consistently contributed to industry discussions on LinkedIn and attended virtual webinars was approached by a recruiter for a role that wasn’t even advertised yet. By staying connected and active in their professional community, they gained access to exclusive opportunities that they wouldn’t have found through traditional job boards.

Job seekers should view their network as a community that can support their career growth. By giving back, sharing knowledge, and actively participating in the community, you increase your visibility and attract new opportunities.

Bringing These Lessons to Life with Hyer SG

The lessons drawn from Labubu’s rise—being unique, leveraging scarcity, telling a story, creating FOMO, and building community—are valuable for businesses, HR professionals, and job seekers alike. Hyer SG understands the importance of applying these principles in recruitment and HR services.

Hyer SG specializes in helping companies attract top talent by developing strong employer brands, creating compelling recruitment campaigns, and fostering a community-oriented company culture. Their expertise ensures that businesses not only find the best candidates but also build long-lasting relationships with employees. For job seekers, Hyer SG offers guidance on personal branding, networking, and career development to help candidates stand out in a competitive job market.

Whether you’re a business looking to refine your recruitment strategy or a job seeker hoping to land your dream job, Hyer SG can help you implement these lessons and succeed in today’s ever-changing landscape.

References

1. Featured image courtesy of POP MART
2. Coca-Cola. (n.d.). “Share a Coke” Campaign. Retrieved from: https://www.coca-cola.co.uk/our-business/heritage/share-a-coke
3. Spotify Wrapped. (n.d.). How Spotify’s Year-End Wrapped Campaign Creates FOMO. Retrieved from: https://newsroom.spotify.com/2020-12-02/the-most-wonderful-time-of-the-year-spotify-wrapped-2020/
4. Harley-Davidson. (n.d.). Harley Owners Group (HOG) Community. Retrieved from: https://www.harley-davidson.com/us/en/content/hog.html
5. Patagonia’s Mission and Values. (n.d.). Retrieved from: https://www.patagonia.com/company-info.html

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