Corporate professionals are increasingly falling into a new workplace habit known as "doomjobbing", a trend where people continuously browse job portals and submit applications, not because they genuinely want a new job, but because they fear being left behind in an uncertain labour market. According to the reports of Indian Express experts say the behaviour is being fuelled by AI disruption, layoff headlines and growing concerns about long-term career security.
The phenomenon is being compared to doomscrolling, where people compulsively consume negative news online. In this case, however, the endless scrolling takes place on LinkedIn and job portals rather than social media feeds.
What is doomjobbing?
Doomjobbing refers to the habit of constantly searching for job opportunities and applying to multiple positions without a clear strategy or intention to switch careers. Professionals often apply to roles they may not even want, simply to reassure themselves that they remain employable.
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Experts describe it as a reactive response to uncertainty rather than a proactive career move. Many people feel productive while applying for dozens of jobs, even though the activity may not actually improve their prospects.
Why is doomjobbing becoming more common?
The rise of artificial intelligence, reports of layoffs and fears about automation have created widespread job anxiety across industries. As a result, many professionals feel compelled to remain in a constant state of job searching.
Adding to the pressure is the visibility of career updates on platforms like LinkedIn, where promotions, job changes and layoff announcements appear side by side, creating a sense of urgency and comparison.
Why recruiters say it can backfire
As Indian Express quoted in their report, recruiters warn that sending hundreds of generic applications rarely produces good results. Many employers can quickly identify candidates who have applied without tailoring their resumes or understanding the role.
Experts argue that ten carefully targeted applications often have a better chance of success than a hundred random ones. Customised resumes, relevant skills and a clear understanding of the position remain key factors in hiring decisions.
The hidden impact on mental health
According to the reports of Indian Express career experts say doomjobbing can create a cycle of stress and disappointment. Repeated rejections , or worse, receiving no response at all, can leave job seekers feeling exhausted and discouraged.
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The behaviour can also blur the line between meaningful career planning and anxiety-driven activity, making people feel busy without necessarily moving closer to their goals.
What should professionals do instead?
As per the reports of Indian Express ,experts recommend focusing on skill development rather than constant applications. Building AI literacy, strengthening domain expertise, networking and learning new tools may prove more valuable than endlessly refreshing job boards.
Rather than panic-applying, career advisers suggest a more intentional approach: identify suitable roles, customise applications and invest in long-term professional growth.
