Ghosting: Not just for Halloween

So there's not just one pandemic on the scene at the minute, there is also a pandemic of "ghosting" by internal recruiters. Being ghosted when you’re applying for a job doesn’t mean sending in an application and never hearing back—that happens to everyone. It means you applied, assumed the interview went well and expected to hear good news soon.

And then, nothing.

No next steps, no calls, no emails. Just dead silence in response to your follow-ups.

Many people lost their jobs in the past few months through no fault of their own, they picked themselves up, dusted themselves off, and went back out there to find a new role. Being ghosted when you thought you had a promising lead can be devastating. As rough as the experience feels, just know that it may not be your fault.

Recruiters or whoever is doing the hiring need to show some sense of compassion. I have spoken to multiple people that this has happened too. Good people and some great candidates. If they are not right for the role just tell them. Nothing kills quicker than hope, but be cruel to be kind and let them down easy, just don't leave them tangling in the wind.

The most common reason candidates get ghosted is also the one they have the least control over a company simply changes focus.

• A change in priorities. A position they thought they needed to fill right now suddenly isn’t as important.

• Internal referrals. Recruiters are often told to prioritize referrals, so even if you had a great conversation on the phone or in person, the recruiter may be prioritizing an internal referral instead.

• Timing. The recruiter you spoke to initially may be on holiday, have quit, been let go, or god forbid out sick, which to be honest is understandable in the current climate.

• A poor recruiter. The recruiter you’ve been working with might just be dropping the ball or feeling overwhelmed, and that’s why you’re not hearing back.

Unfortunately, recruiters aren’t incentivized to give candidates feedback about where they messed up. It’s not part of their job. If you’re being ghosted consistently, then you may need personalized feedback from a trusted source. Having someone on the inside to look at your follow-ups or hold a mock interview with you can go a long way.

Being ghosted is an emotional experience, whether it’s done by a love interest or a potential employer. But you don’t have to let it define you. Once companies lose, can be another companies gain.

With a little introspection and perseverance, you’ll find the right long-term match.