“Ghosting” is no longer strictly a dating term. The phenomenon has become so common in today’s digital age that it has entered the hiring process. Over the years, the legal and IT sectors have encountered their own brand of ghosting during the hiring process by both job seekers and employers. Ghosting during hiring refers to when a company or candidate stops communicating after a particular stage in the hiring process, leaving the other in the dark. Ghosting can be frustrating, demoralizing, and negatively impact a candidate and employer’s experience.
Why Ghosting Occurs
Ghosting is most commonly experienced after an initial interview but can also occur after a job offer. After completing a series of interviews, candidates may think they are the perfect fit for the role. However, they never hear back from the hiring authority, leaving them in limbo. This lack of communication can be particularly frustrating for all parties who have invested much time and effort into the process.
Sometimes, ghosting occurs because hiring managers or candidates may feel uncomfortable delivering bad news. For example, they may have decided to pursue other candidates or opportunities and take the path of least resistance by not communicating.
Remember The Golden Rule
Are you an employer trying to avoid being ghosted by a new hire? To prevent a ghosting experience, work to create hiring process efficiencies by setting realistic expectations. When rejecting a candidate, be professional, respectful, and kind, and focus on being positive.
Ghosting hurts reputations all the way around. Candidates who have been ghosted are likely to share their negative experiences with friends, family, and colleagues, which can damage the company’s brand. Additionally, companies that have been ghosted will be quite unlikely to consider the candidate for future opportunities.
Companies should prioritize communication with candidates to avoid being ghosted in the hiring process. This means setting clear expectations at the beginning of the process and following through with regular updates. Even if a candidate has been rejected, delivering this news promptly and respectfully is essential. Companies can also use technology, such as automated emails, to help streamline the communication process and ensure that all candidates receive updates on their application status.
Both in dating and in the hiring process, ghosting is a frustrating and demoralizing experience for both candidates and employers. Always remember the Golden Rule and treat others as you would want to be treated.