From frustration to focus: navigating “angry applying” in financial services marketing and comms

Following the rise of quiet quitting, a new trend is emerging among professionals in the UK’s financial services sector: angry applying. This behaviour sees individuals reacting to workplace dissatisfaction by applying for multiple jobs in quick succession, often driven by frustration rather than strategy.

Marketing and communications roles often sit at the intersection of brand, regulation and stakeholder engagement, which can lead to challenges. But when frustrations arise, the key to success lies in turning that frustration into a focused and intentional job search.

Why angry applying is gaining traction

Marketing and comms professionals in financial services face unique pressures. They must manage reputational risk and navigate regulatory constraints while delivering creative campaigns in conservative environments. It’s easy to feel stuck if recognition is lacking, progression is unclear or creative freedom is limited.

Angry applying is a reaction to feeling undervalued, overworked or overlooked. For many, it becomes a way to reclaim control and seek better opportunities.

Common triggers for frustration

The motivations behind angry applying are varied, but some common themes include:

• Being passed over for promotions or pay rises
• Feeling creatively stifled by compliance-heavy environments
• A lack of strategic input or influence in decision-making
• Poor leadership or unclear communication from senior stakeholders
• Burnout from long hours and high expectations
• A disconnect between personal values and company culture

The risks of reacting without a plan

While angry applying may feel cathartic in the moment, it carries several risks:

• Poorly tailored CVs and cover letters that fail to stand out
• Applying for roles that are no better than your current one
• Wasting time and energy on roles that don’t align with your goals

Hiring processes are often rigorous and reputations matter in financial services, so a scattergun approach can do more harm than good.

How to turn frustration into a strategic job search

Rather than letting frustration drive your decisions, use it as a catalyst for clarity and action. Here’s how:

1. Pause and reflect

Before updating your CV or browsing job boards, take a step back. What exactly is causing your dissatisfaction? Is it the work itself, the leadership, the culture or the lack of progression?

Consider keeping a journal to track your thoughts and patterns. This can help you identify whether your frustration is situational, and whether a new role or a new mindset is the solution.

2. Define your ideal next role

Think carefully about what you want from your next position. Consider:

• The type of organisation i.e. is it a well-established, traditional financial services organisation, an up-and-coming, tech-led scale-up or perhaps it is a company looking to revamp?
• The work environment: hybrid, remote or office-based
• The scope of the role: e.g., brand strategy, internal comms, digital marketing or stakeholder engagement i.e., is it a generalist marketing/communications role or a narrower, specialist role? Which aligns better for your longer-term career goals?
• The values and culture: e.g., innovation, inclusion, sustainability or transparency

Create a list of must-haves and nice-to-haves. This will help you stay focused and avoid applying for opportunities that don’t align with your long-term goals.

3. Tailor your applications

Even if you’re feeling frustrated, resist the urge to send out generic applications. Instead, take the time to tailor your CV for better response rates.

Analyse the job description and highlight relevant experience:

• Before submitting your CV, take the time to carefully review the job advert
• Identify key skills and responsibilities by highlighting keywords and phrases used in the posting
• Pinpoint the top three to five core priorities for the role and tailor your experience accordingly
• Ensure important achievements are clearly visible, ideally on the first page of your CV. Reorder bullet points or sections so the most relevant content appears first
• Condense or remove unrelated experience that doesn’t directly support your application
• If you’re moving into a new industry or role, be sure to highlight transferable skills that are applicable to the position

Use data to show impact:

• To avoid sounding generic, back up your experience with measurable results wherever possible. This helps recruiters understand the value you bring, rather than just reading a list of responsibilities.
• Example statements: “Grew LinkedIn followers by 300% within 6 months.” “Led a rebrand that increased lead generation by 25% year over year.”

Match the language and tone:

• Use the employer’s language and tone to help position yourself as a natural fit
• Reflect the terminology they use in the job description (e.g., “stakeholder engagement,” “campaign optimisation”)
• Tailor your professional summary or profile to align with their environment and needs. For example, If applying to a scale-up, avoid statements like “Looking to join a large corporate” as this may signal a mismatch in culture or ambition even if your experience is relevant

Include a personalised email or cover note:

• Even if optional, a short, well-written introductory email can make your application stand out
• Use it to briefly explain why you’re a strong match for the role
• Demonstrate that you’ve researched the company and understand its goals or values

Don’t overlook spelling, grammar and presentation:

• Especially in marketing or communications roles, attention to detail is crucial
• Poor grammar or typos are often enough to disqualify strong candidates at the application stage
• Always leave time to proofread your CV and accompanying message or ask someone else to review it for you

In financial services, messaging must be both creative and compliant – so your ability to communicate clearly and concisely is key. Use it to your advantage.

4. Take care of your wellbeing

Job searching can be emotionally draining, especially when it’s fuelled by frustration. Make sure you:

• Take regular breaks from screens and job boards
• Exercise or engage in activities that help you relax
• Practise mindfulness or meditation to manage stress
• Set boundaries around your job search time

Remember, your wellbeing is just as important as your next role. A clear mind leads to better decisions and stronger interviews.

5. Use your network

Reach out to mentors, industry recruiters, trusted colleagues or former colleagues in your wider network. They can offer:

• Honest feedback on your CV and interview style
• Insights into company culture and hiring trends
• Referrals or introductions to relevant opportunities

Attend industry events, webinars or networking sessions to stay visible and connected.

6. Stay positive and resilient

Rejections are part of the process. Instead of taking them personally, use them as learning opportunities. If you receive feedback, take it on board and refine your approach.

Celebrate small wins along the way, such as securing an interview or receiving positive feedback. These moments can boost your morale and keep you motivated.

7. Seek professional support

If you’re struggling to manage your frustration or navigate the job market, consider working with a career coach, mentor or specialist recruiter. They can help you:

• Clarify your goals and values
• Develop a job search strategy
• Prepare for interviews and salary negotiations

Look for someone with experience in financial services or marketing and comms, as they’ll understand the specific challenges and opportunities in your field.

From reaction to reinvention

Angry applying may begin as a reaction to workplace frustration, but it can be the start of a more intentional and empowered career journey.

By pausing to reflect, setting clear goals and approaching your job search with purpose, you can turn a moment of discontent into a meaningful step forward.

Your next role should not just be an escape. It should be a better fit for your skills, values and aspirations.

Get in touch with us today to discuss your next role or career goals.