Why we started oyster
In this economy, it's hard enough to find a job. Finding one you love? That feels like wishful thinking. At oyster, we’re out to shatter that sentiment.
We were founded on a simple insight: Most of us limit our career potential to the small circles we inhabit — parents, peers, academic institutions, even social media feeds...
“LinkedIn has that social media effect where you can only see industries that you frequent or are already a part of, so to move beyond requires Googling. It's hard to know where to start.”
— Climate advocate
“I took a job at Amazon for the brand name. It was the first time I felt depressed.”
— Recent post-grad
But the reality is that the global professional landscape is brimming with niche organizations aligned to your interests and people who have made the pivot you've been dreaming of...
“I quit finance in New York to be a watchmaker in Andorra. I’ve never been happier and have time to do other things I love.”
— Finance bro turned watchmaker
“I didn't even know this company or role existed! I love it so much that I literally have to stop myself from working on the weekends.”
— Language Strategy Consultant
These stories aren't lacking, they’re just hard to find. While the world of work has changed, our tools for navigating it haven't. We've been stuck with performative feeds, chaotic group chats, and anonymous threads that rarely lead anywhere. oyster fixes this by surfacing the connections that matter most to you and your career. We make it easy and fun to identify your next move, find collaborators for your side ventures, and continually exchange high-value knowledge with others in similar roles.
oyster reflects the current and future state of how we live and work:
Non-Linear Paths: People are pivoting more, staying put less. As we evolve as individuals, we're realizing our careers should too.
Multi-Hyphenate Lives: Work is no longer just a 9-to-5; it’s side ventures, freelance freedom, and life-enriching hobbies.
Intentional Connection: People are sick of doomscrolling and divisiveness. They crave candid, meaningful interaction.
After rounds of focus groups, over 100 user interviews via NYU Wagner’s Design Thinking program, and the collection of countless personal career journeys shared, the verdict is clear: the appetite for oyster is real — we are the antidote to career anxiety, 'stuckness', and loneliness.