Ever felt frustrated with your current job and spread your CV around like wildfire?

You’re not alone.

The term “rage-applying” refers to applying for dozens of jobs in a fit of frustration. According to Times Live, a Robert Walters South Africa survey of 2,000 South African professionals found that 62% of respondents admit to rage-applying.

Why? Due to a toxic workplace culture.

But, while rage-applying may seem like a cathartic way to vent dissatisfaction and explore new opportunities, it can negatively affect your career and well-being.

Why is rage-applying a bad idea?

• Reputation: Not doing proper research, not tailoring your resume and cover letter, and not following up may come across as unprofessional, desperate, or careless. This can damage your image in and around the industry.

• Time and energy: Applying for jobs takes attention and effort. If you don’t get a response, you’ve wasted valuable resources you could’ve spent on networking, up-skilling or seeking more rewarding opportunities.

• Enhanced frustration: When you put your emotions into searching for a new job, as a way to deal with frustration or disappointment in your current job, you may feel more frustrated and disappointed if you don’t get positive responses.

• Applier’s remorse: Applying for jobs out of anger or desperation can lead to settling for an offer that pays poorly or doesn’t match your skills and goals.

• Missing out: Doing proper research can yield better opportunities than you are likely to end up with through rage-applying.

How to avoid rage-applying (and rage-accepting)

We’re not saying you should settle for an unpleasant work environment or decline opportunities that have great potential. In fact, rage-applying isn’t really the problem; it’s merely a symptom.

The first step towards solving the problem is identifying and addressing the root cause of your unhappiness. And, next time, before firing up your CV, try these tips:

• Breathe: Try to calm down, reflect on your situation, and ask yourself, “What’s the main cause for my frustration? Is it my boss, colleagues, workload, salary, work environment, or something else? How long have I felt this way? How is it affecting my performance, health, and happiness?”

• Verbalise: If possible, try to talk to your manager or HR department about your concerns, to see if they can do anything to improve the situation. Avoid blame-shifting or complaining, and focus on constructive communication.

• Explore: If your situation can’t be resolved internally, and you do decide to make a move, do thorough research for other options in greener pastures.

Checklist for job-seeking prep:

1. Write down specifics: Think about these questions: What don’t you like about your current employer? What are you looking for in a new job? What are your skills, strengths, and expertise? Do you want to stay in your current industry or venture into a new one?

2. Research: Use online platforms to browse postings, network, and join communities. Don’t forget about LinkedIn. Contact specialised recruiters to see how they can help.

3. Make targeted applications: Identify and apply for jobs matching your criteria and qualifications. Focus on quality over quantity, tailoring your CV and cover letter to each role.

4. Prepare: When you are invited for an interview, do your homework. Research the company, role and, if possible, even the interviewer.

5. Be proactive: Appearing self-assured and confident makes a bigger impact on a potential employer than desperation. Never badmouth your previous employer or go into too much detail about why you left. This shows the new employer that you are mature and ready to move on.

Contact Network Recruitment for advice on or help with applying for a new role.