3 Tips for Job Seekers Getting Ghosted
You're on the hunt for a new position, watched 100 YouTube videos on "How to Nail Your First Interview" and just finished spending hours polishing your resume. Over the next few weeks, you sent out cover letters and submitted long, cold and dry online applications. Now it's time to take a step back and see what happens!
A couple weeks go by and you aren't hearing anything back. Not even from the jobs you didn't really want (which can kill self esteem). You eventually accept a temporary contract role and as more time goes by, you find yourself trying to impress people you don't even like while convincing yourself the place you are at is "not so bad". Unfortunately, you're being ghosted. This is a common and often times depleting process that anyone can face while applying for positions. One misconception is that candidates who hold PhD, MBA and other highly accomplished titles are all being talked up, wined and dined. They too, are being ghosted and can feel just as disappointed, if not more.
Here are a few ways to handle and avoid the ups and downs of being ghosted:
#1. Avoid applying to companies that do not have visible and obvious core values. Most job seekers are more attracted to the Job Description, than the actual company itself. If you do just a little bit of digging, and imagine beyond getting the job and impressing managers with your vigor and expertise, you might see that the companies don't value communication. Small to medium sized companies can be just as rewarding as big tech names, and often times communicate more genuinely, thus avoiding the dreaded ghosting.
#2. Be strategic when asked where you are at in your job search. A recruiter has called you, the conversation was great. They asked you "Where are you at in your job search?" or "How soon are you looking to transition?". As much as you want to scream from the mountain top "As soon as possible!", I advise trying something different and this is why: Saying you are looking to transition or find a new job right away can work, but only if the employer is just as desperate. Employers who will take anyone that quickly, may be showing signs of high attrition. On the other hand, you are the perfect candidate with the exact experience required to do the job. If you express that you are in a hurry to make a move and the employer's opening is delayed due to budget constraints, they may not reach back out, assuming that someone as qualified as you must have found a position by that time. This does not make ghosting right, but it is a reality. You are totally qualified, and you've done nothing wrong.
#3. Occupy your time wisely. There is nothing more valuable than your time. If you spend the majority of your day constantly checking your email, refreshing your Indeed and ZipRecruiter inbox and stalking recruiters on LinkedIn that you believe may contact you, it will massively drain you. It is hard being let go from a position, it can even be heartbreaking. But, I encourage you to be engaged in your own life.
My best advice on handling the ups and downs of being ghosted, is to keep in mind that at the end of the day you are still applying for the same amount of jobs whether you are happy, or miserable. You'll get the same call backs (meant for you) if you are moping around or getting some fresh air. Choose to take control of this period of change. You can pick up a call while you're anxiously waiting by your laptop, or while you're laughing and relaxed having a good time. This can make a huge difference.
I appreciate you taking the time to read my first article and wish you happy hunting!