What is Rage Applying and What is a Better Way to Look For New Opportunities?

Have you heard of "rage applying"? It's becoming a popular way for Gen Z employees to find a better working situation. Also known as "spray-and-pray," rage applying is the mass sending of résumés and cover letters to a wide range of jobs in hopes of landing an interview.

It's been mentioned as one of the corporate trends alongside ‘ quiet quitting ’, which is doing the bare minimum at work and putting in no more effort than what’s needed to do the job or fulfill the contract.

Both rage applying and quiet quitting are ways for employees to show their dissatisfaction with their current jobs.

Reasons for Rage Applying

While the term “rage applying” has become associated with Gen Z employees, it has been around for a long time as a way of coping with unhappiness and dissatisfaction at work. Here are some reasons for rage applying:

You’re desperate to leave your current job.

Perhaps you don’t like the way management treats you, or the company’s values don’t align with yours, or you’re uncomfortable with how the company culture works. Whatever the reason, you begin applying to as many companies as you can to look for other opportunities.

You want new opportunities to learn and grow.

Perhaps you’ve learned all you can at your current role and want a challenge, or you may be looking to learn new skills. Or maybe you’re in a job mismatch. Ascending to a higher position with more responsibilities can give you new challenges to test and hone your capabilities. Shifting to a new role or a new industry will help you learn new skills and acquire knowledge. But what if you can’t attain these at the company you work for now? You might resort to rage applying to find a better career path.

It’s a way to cast a wide net and cover all your bases.

This tactic may work if you don't know what kind of job you want or are still exploring other roles and industries. When rage applying, it's likely that you'll apply to jobs that aren't a perfect fit for your experience or skill set. But this might make you consider the positions that aren't your first choice and thereby gain additional opportunities.

Possible Disadvantages of Rage Applying

Many jobseekers make the mistake of applying to other jobs in a fit of anger or frustration due to their current situation. While it may seem like a good idea at the time to make a quick change or “escape” from a bad situation, it can have disastrous consequences that outweigh the short-term benefits.

Making a decision you’ll later regret

Decisions made in haste can lead to poor outcomes that may be difficult to reverse. When in an emotional state, it can be hard to think logically and objectively evaluate potential opportunities, leading to job applications that are not well-thought-out or in the best interests of your career. You may end up applying for jobs that are ill-suited to your qualifications and experience, and regret it later when you’ve had time to think.

Expressing negativity in your application

Your emotional state can be reflected in your application materials, such as your cover letter or resume. Employers may not pick up on the fact that you are applying out of anger or frustration, but may be able to sense the underlying negativity in your words. This can result in your application not being taken seriously, and may even lead to employers rejecting your application.

Hurting your relationship with employers

Applying for other jobs when angry may harm your reputation with current and past employers. Companies often track employee movements, and if you are seen to be hopping from one job to another too often, it may hurt your prospects for future job opportunities. This may also lead to negative feedback from your current employer, who may feel like you have been disrespectful or ungrateful.

Making errors in your job applications

If you're sending out applications in the heat of the moment, you may make crucial errors in your resume or cover letter that could reduce your chances for getting an interview. You might accidentally discard vital data or forget to make changes to your resume and cover letter. This can diminish your chances of getting the job.

Failing to tailor the resume and cover letter to the job

It's important to make sure your résumés are tailored to each job. Don't submit generic applications - take the time to make sure your résumé and cover letter reflect the position you're applying for.

In short, applying for other jobs when angry or frustrated can have undesirable consequences. Take time to assess your options before committing to any course of action.

Better Ways to Make a Fresh Start

What’s a better way to find new opportunities other than rage applying? Rather than taking a negative approach, here is what you should do instead:

Prepare in advance

Plan ahead and prepare your applications thoroughly. Take the time to research the company and read the job description thoroughly. Write a cover letter tailored for the position, and update your resume accordingly.

Work with a career coach

If you’re feeling overwhelmed and need a little help, don’t be afraid to ask for it. Consulting with a mentor or career advisor can give you the insight and support you need to complete a successful job application. Doing so can help you make decisions that are in the best interests of your career and prevent you regretting later.

Take breaks

Job applications require a lot of time and effort, and it’s important to take regular breaks. This will help you clear your head, generate new ideas, and give you the time to consider your options.

Focus on the positive

It can be hard to stay motivated when the job application process isn’t going as planned. Focusing on the positive can help you to stay on track. Think about the skills and experience you can bring to the role, as well as the impact you could have in the organization.

Rage applying is rarely beneficial when trying to land a job. Rather than rushing your application, take the time to do it properly to increase your chances of finding the job you’re looking for.

Find the Job That Helps You Keep Your Cool

If you’re rage applying because you want to improve your current work situation, simmer down and check out the cool jobs at our Explore Careers section.

Then#SEEKBetterjobs by creating or updating your profile at JobStreet.  Job-hunting on the go? Download the JobStreet app on Google Play or the App Store.

Update your resume using our resume templates and search for opportunities that will set you on the career path to fulfillment and success.