New China dating trend emerges where people refer exes to new prospects, akin to job referrals

Young Chinese people have created a new dating trend called “ex-partner referrals” in which they treat former lovers like job candidates.The young people share detailed profiles, personal feedback and previous relationship “usage reports” with strangers online to help navigate the risks of modern dating.The trend reportedly began on social media after a viral post asked for an “internal referral” for a boyfriend.The viral post read: “Can any sisters refer me to their ex? I really do not understand why dating is so hard. If I do not find a normal guy soon, I might need to start drinking herbal medicine to rebalance myself.”Viewers flooded the comment sections and pitched their ex-partners like seasoned human resources recruiters or salespeople.Young women checking a mobile phone. The ex-partner referrals are placed online. Photo: ShutterstockOne netizen from Jilin province in northeastern China replied: “How about my current boyfriend? If we break up, I will let you know, he is actually quite generous.”