Ghosted during the Recruitment Process? Here's what to do next!

We’ve all been there. You spend hours (if not days) applying for a role, go through several rounds of interviews, and feel hopeful about your chances—only to be met with silence. No email, no call, no update. Just.......nothing.

Being ghosted in the recruitment process is frustrating, disheartening, and frankly, unprofessional and rude. But it happens more often than it should and it happens to jobseekers at ALL levels. If you're experiencing this, know that you’re not alone, and there are ways to handle it without burning bridges.

Why Does Ghosting Happen?

While it’s easy to take it personally, ghosting is often due to internal factors beyond your control, such as a shift in hiring priorities, internal restructuring or budget freezes, a slow-moving recruitment process, poor communication from the hiring team or more than likely the recruiter is simply overwhelmed and not keeping up with the communication.

Whatever the reason, you deserve clarity so you can hang in there a bit longer OR accept that it isn’t going to happen and move on. Here are some tips on how to handle ghosting with professionalism and confidence.

Step 1: Send a Polite Follow-Up Email

Recruiters and hiring managers are busy, and sometimes they genuinely forget to respond. A friendly nudge can help.

Here is a script that you can use:

Subject:?Following Up on [Job Title] Application

Hi [Recruiter's Name], I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to follow up on my application for the [Job Title] position at [Company]. I enjoyed our conversation and learning more about the role and I remain very interested. I appreciate you are very busy but I would love to know if there are any updates you can share about the hiring process. Thanks in advance!

Warm regards [Your Name]

Step 2: Try Another Communication Channel

If your email goes unanswered, consider connecting on LinkedIn or giving them a quick call. A simple message like this can work:

Hi [Recruiter’s Name], I wanted to follow up on my application for [Job Title]. I appreciate that the hiring process may be out of your control but I’d really appreciate a brief update when you get the chance. Thanks in advance. [Your Name]

This keeps it light and professional without coming across as pushy.

Step 3: Set a Gentle Deadline

If you’ve followed up and still haven’t heard back, it’s okay to move on—but you can also let them know.

Suggested final follow-up email script:

Subject:?Checking in One Last Time – [Job Title] Application

Hi [Recruiter’s Name], I understand that hiring processes can take time, and I truly appreciate the opportunity to be considered. If I don’t hear back by [date], I’ll assume the position has been filled and will continue exploring other opportunities. Wishing you and the team all the best!

Warm regards [Your Name]

This approach is firm yet respectful, allowing you to close the loop gracefully.

Step 4: Reflect and Move On

If there’s still radio silence, take it as a sign to move forward. It’s most likely no reflection of your worth or skills. There simply may have been another candidate who was a closer match, an internal candidate that they already had earmarked for the role (as frustrating as that is) or someone they already knew OR they have put the role on hold and forgotten to tell you! It happens!

Keep applying, networking, and focusing on opportunities that value communication and respect. In the words of Mel Robbins - focus on what you can control and 'Let Them' make their own decision (if you haven't already read this book then I highly recommend it).

Need help with your job search?

I am running another Job Search Accelerator Masterclass this month on Friday 28th February from 9-1 pm AEDT.

Here is a link to register: Job Search Masterclass

Let me know if you have any questions about your job search and how we might be able to help you secure your ideal next role.

Warm regards

Leah