Ghosting in Hiring: Why It Happens and How to Handle It

Ever submitted a job application, nailed an interview, and then... nothing? Or maybe not even gotten that far - Just radio silence. Welcome to one of the most frustrating experiences in job searching: ghosting.

As a recruiter, I hear of it happening far too often—candidates ghosted by companies, companies ghosted by candidates, and even recruiters caught in the middle. So, why does it happen? And more importantly, what can you do about it?

Why Does Ghosting Happen in Hiring?

1. Overwhelmed Hiring Managers

Recruiters and hiring managers are often drowning in applications. Sometimes, the sheer volume means candidates slip through the cracks—not intentionally, just a result of inbox overload.

2. Shifting Priorities

Businesses change plans fast. A role might be put on hold, budgets adjusted, or hiring needs reevaluated. Unfortunately, not everyone takes the time to communicate these changes.

3. Awkward Conversations Avoided

Let’s be honest: rejecting someone is uncomfortable. Some companies would rather say nothing than send a rejection email. (Yes, we need to do better - a "no" is better than crickets! 🦗 )

4. The "Candidate Black Hole" Effect

Sometimes, your application gets lost in an applicant tracking system (ATS), never even making it to human eyes. Like sending a message in a bottle—except the ocean is an AI-driven database. It could be an overwhelmed hiring manager, too many applicants or odd formatting not parsing content well.

5. Out of Office?

The ball gets dropped - the hiring manager is out of the office, the TA, recruiter or HR staff are on vacation... all sorts of odd things can pop up that cause things to slow or stall.

What Can You Do About It?

1. Follow Up (But Don't Stalk)

A polite check-in email a week after your last communication is totally fair game. Something like: "Hi [Hiring Manager], I hope you're doing well! I wanted to follow up on the [Job Title] position and see if there are any updates. I'm really excited about the opportunity! Thanks for your time."

If you still hear nothing after two follow-ups? Probably time to move on.

2. Network Your Way In

If your application disappeared into the ATS abyss, try reaching out to someone at the company—maybe a recruiter, HR or the hiring manager on LinkedIn. A friendly, targeted message can help get your resume seen.

3. Keep Your Options Open

Don’t put all your eggs in one job listing. Keep applying elsewhere so you’re not left stranded if one opportunity goes silent.

4. Know When to Walk Away

If a company ghosts you during the hiring process, imagine how they might handle communication as an employer. Consider it a red flag and move on to places that value transparency (But also... delays and/or communication errors DO happen in the hiring process).

5. Flip the Perspective

Hiring is a two-way street. If a company ghosted you, ask yourself: Do I really want to work somewhere that lacks basic communication? Possibly not (I'd probably say the same for a 6 round interview process 😬 ).

Final Thoughts

Ghosting in hiring is frustrating, but it’s not always personal. Companies, like people, can be bad at communication. The best thing you can do? Be proactive, stay organized, keep your confidence up, and remember— the right role, company and team ARE out there.

Have you ever been ghosted in the hiring process? Drop your experience in the comments!