Ghosting in the Job Market: A Growing Trend with Consequences
“Ghosting” is not just a dating phenomenon; it has become increasingly common in the workplace as well. This unreliable behavior poses risks to both employers and job seekers, according to career experts.
Why is Job Ghosting on the Rise?
Ghosting, the act of abruptly ceasing communication with someone, has been around for a while. However, its prevalence in recent years can be attributed to the dynamic job market leading up to and after the Covid-19 pandemic.
As the U.S. economy recovered from the pandemic-related slowdown, the demand for labor surged. The unemployment rate remained historically low for about two years, while job openings reached record highs. This environment gave job seekers a sense of abundant choices and increased the likelihood of ghosting during the hiring process.
The Alarming Statistics
A December report from the job site Indeed revealed that approximately 78% of job seekers admitted to ghosting a prospective employer, compared to 68% in the previous year. Moreover, 62% of job seekers stated their intentions to ghost during future job searches, a significant increase from 56% in 2022 and 37% in 2019.
Ghosting is not a one-sided issue. Around 40% of job seekers reported being ghosted by an employer after a second or third-round interview, up from 30% in 2022. These statistics indicate that ghosting is not just a passing fad but a trend that continues to rise.
The Feedback Loop
According to a poll by the Thriving Center of Psychology, about one in six millennial and Generation Z workers have ghosted a prospective employer during the interview process. The reasons behind such behavior range from losing interest in the job, finding another offer, or having a negative interview experience.
Moreover, two-thirds of workers have “ghosted” employers by accepting a job offer and then retracting it before their start date, according to a 2019 poll by Randstad. This feedback loop perpetuates the problem, with job seekers believing that employers are getting worse at ghosting. Many job seekers adopt the same behavior, considering it normal etiquette. It’s a circular problem that needs addressing.
The Risks of Ghosting
Ghosting poses risks for both employers and job seekers. From the job seeker’s perspective, ghosting can lead to being “red-flagged” by employers, resulting in a negative impact on future job opportunities. On the other hand, employers may believe that ghosting saves time during the hiring process, but it can harm their brand in the long run. Negative experiences shared online by job seekers can tarnish a company’s reputation.
As a career strategist at Indeed’s Job Search Academy, Clint Carrens advises against job seekers ghosting employers. It’s crucial to consider the potential consequences and maintain professional communication throughout the hiring process.
Ghosting is a growing trend in the job market, and it’s important for both employers and job seekers to recognize the impact it can have. Building a reputation for reliable communication is essential for long-term success in the ever-evolving job market.