Being ghosted by an employer after an interview can be extremely frustrating for job candidates, especially if it’s not the first time. Finding a great job can be time-consuming, and you put in a lot of effort. So, you expect some professional courtesy in return, even if you are not the person chosen for the job. Just knowing if you are out of consideration can allow you to move on and focus on other opportunities.
So, what should you do when you’ve been ghosted? We asked our team of construction recruiters to give job candidates some insights into how to manage this situation. Here are the best practices they recommend you follow:
1. Follow Up
After your interview, if you haven’t heard back within the timeframe the employer gave (or within about a week if no timeframe was mentioned), send a polite follow-up email. Keep it short, professional, and appreciative. Reiterate your interest in the role and ask if there are any updates on the hiring process. This shows initiative and professionalism without being pushy.
2. Wait for a Response After the Initial Follow-Up
Once you’ve followed up, give the employer some time to respond, typically 5–7 business days. Hiring teams often juggle multiple priorities, so patience is important. Things can happen, people go on vacation, and priorities can shift. Repeatedly checking in too soon can come across as desperate.
3. Try Another Point of Contact
If you still don’t hear back after your initial follow-up and a reasonable waiting period, consider reaching out to another point of contact. For example, if you’ve been speaking with a recruiter, you might follow up with the hiring manager, or vice versa. Keep your message professional and courteous. You could also reach out using a different channel, such as LinkedIn.
4. Keep Pursuing Other Opportunities
Don’t let one unresponsive employer stall your job search. This is a common mistake candidates make that hampers their search. Keep applying and interviewing with other organizations so you maintain momentum. Not every opportunity will move forward, but having multiple applications in progress helps you stay motivated and confident.
5. Consider What You’ve Learned From the Situation
Ghosting is frustrating, but it can also be a learning opportunity. Ask yourself:
- Did I confirm the hiring timeline during the interview?
- Did I leave a strong closing impression by expressing my enthusiasm for the role?
- Could I have asked for the best way to follow up?
A Final Word About Getting Ghosted By Employers
Getting ghosted is not ideal, but it’s a reality of searching for a job. Whether or not you get ghosted is out of your hands. The important thing is to learn from the situation. Use each experience to refine your approach to interviews and follow-ups. While you can’t control an employer’s communication, you can improve your process for the next opportunity.
Read More About The Ghosting Issue In Recruiting
What is a Ghost Job Ad and Why Do Companies Post Them?
5 Reasons Why You Are Getting Ghosted by Candidates
4 Ways to Reduce the Odds of Getting Ghosted by Job Candidates
