Nobody reads my job applications anyway. Why should I put the effort in?

November 13, 2026 — 5:11am

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I’m stuck in a job I don’t like, and my job search is getting me nowhere. I’ve given up on putting effort into my applications. I use the “quick apply” function common on many job sites these days, where you can literally apply for a job in 30 seconds. I don’t have to worry about a cover letter. I don’t even bother finessing my CV to suit the role.

I’ve decided to use this because for at least the last five years I have found the old way (putting a lot of time and care into job applications) is a total waste of effort. The best I can hope for is an employer to mark my application as “viewed” so I know they’ve at least looked at it. An interview opportunity feels like a one in a hundred shot. Do I need to go back to spending time on my applications?

I have genuine sympathy for you and the position you find yourself in. The job market in Australia has fundamentally changed over the last few years and has radically shifted in certain industries........

© The Age