'I’m Too Tired': Job Seeker’s Honest Email To CEO Goes Viral After Refusing ‘Exhausting’ Video Task

Job applications today often come with long forms, tests and extra requirements that leave many candidates exhausted before they even reach the interview stage. One such application email has now sparked a debate online after a startup founder shared a screenshot from a job seeker who openly admitted they were too burnt out to create a video introduction requested by the company.

The screenshot was posted on X (formerly Twitter) by Evan Zhao, Co-founder and CEO of Pacagen, with the caption, “The kids are definitely not alright….” The post quickly drew mixed reactions, with some supporting the applicant’s honesty while others felt the candidate should have followed the instructions.

Applicant Admits Feeling Burnt Out

The image shared by Zhao showed an email sent by a job applicant

responding to a LinkedIn job posting.

In the email, the applicant introduced themselves and mentioned that they had attached their resume as a PDF. However, the person also directly addressed the company’s request for a video introduction.

“Hello Mr. Zhao,” the email began. “My name is (hidden) and I just saw your job posting on LinkedIn. Attached below is my resume as a PDF and I know that the posting said to include a video introduction of myself but quite frankly, I’m burnt out from the job search and too tired to make a video so I elected not to do it.”

The applicant ended the message politely, writing, “Anyways, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask!”

The honest tone of the email became the centre of discussion online, especially among people frustrated with modern hiring processes.

The kids are definitely not alright…. pic.twitter.com/pGeI44bx6E

— Evan Zhao (@EvanZhao6) May 13, 2026

Internet Debates Hiring Demands

Many social media users sided with the applicant and questioned why companies now expect candidates to submit videos during the application process.

“At first, I wanted to agree and say “how is he supposed to get hired if he can’t be bothered to…” but I actually agree with the applicant. Making tailored videos is a waste of time, especially if this becomes a trend. The “I exist” tactic sent to more employers is better,” a user wrote.

Another person disagreed and said following instructions is important during job applications. “This is not good. My advice to that kid is “follow the instruction.” Persevere is the only requirement for any field. Most successful people are not the smartest but most resilient. At times, I have found life is this.”

Several users also criticised companies for adding too many steps before interviews even begin. “No way job applications these days require a video man. what kinda humiliation rituals are you subjecting people to,” a comment read.

Another wrote, “Why a video is needed? Is it modelling job? Another amazing demand…”

A user recalled their own frustrating experience and commented, “I remember applying for a receptionist job and they wanted me to write an essay about why I’d be good, do an IQ test and an EQ test, then a receptionist specific test… after all that “we can give you a phone call interview”…. they were a little opticians around the corner.”

Another person added, “If I need to apply for 40+ jobs I’m definitely not bothering making a video. You will get a CV and you’ll be happy about it.”