Career Confidence

20Casper the Unfriendly Ghost

A major issue in the modern job search is something called ghosting. You've probably heard the term. It started off as a social term that originally gained attention in the context of dating and personal relationships, but has since been extended to other contexts, including professional and business settings. And now, it describes what happens to candidates in the interview process.

Ghosting in a job search happens when either a job candidate or an employer suddenly stops responding or providing updates during the recruitment process.

This is a new thing that has happened over the course of the past decade, as anyone who conducted a job search previous to this “ghosting epidemic” can tell you.

Back in the day, employers, for the most part, were pretty good at letting you know that you didn't get the job. They'd always followed up with a call or email, thanking you for your time, and letting you know they'd keep your resume on file for future opportunities.

Who can forget the little postcards that came in the mail letting you know your application was received, but you were not being considered for the role. That was a nice touch. It did not leave you in limbo, and you felt valued and appreciated for your application.

But now, ghosting is completely out of control. Not only do they not let you know your application is/is not being considered, many times, you don't even get a response when you've interviewed—whether it is once or multiple times. ...