Rage Applying: A New Social Media Trend in Job Hunting

In the age of social media, new trends emerge rapidly, and the job market is not immune to this phenomenon. One such trend that has recently gained traction on TikTok is “rage applying.” This term refers to a practice where individuals, primarily from the Gen Z and millennial generations, apply to dozens or even hundreds of jobs in a fit of frustration with their current employment situation.

The primary motivators behind rage applying are feelings of being overworked, underpaid, and generally dissatisfied with current work conditions. Specific triggers can include missed promotions, lack of raises, or overall disappointment with their role or company. The ultimate goal of rage applying is to escape the current job and secure a new one with better pay or benefits.

Interestingly, this trend seems to be yielding positive results for many TikTokers, with some reporting a significant pay increase of up to $25,000 at their new job. However, it’s important to note that rage applying may not be a viable strategy for everyone. Making hasty decisions out of anger could potentially lead to an even worse employment situation. For instance, in the heat of the moment, one might overlook whether the new job aligns with their interests or career goals.

Instead of resorting to rage applying, there are other more thoughtful approaches to address dissatisfaction at work. These include having an open conversation with your boss about your concerns, carefully reviewing job descriptions to ensure they align with your career goals before applying, or considering a calm and well-planned exit if leaving the job seems like the best option.

While rage applying has become a popular trend on TikTok and can lead to substantial salary increases, job hopping out of anger can also lead to bigger problems. Therefore, it’s crucial to weigh the potential benefits against the risks before deciding to follow this trend.