Your resume is rejected! And NO feedback? Why?? How?? What??

What’s Happening in the Current Job Market?

The job market today feels like a mystery wrapped in frustration. Many job seekers, including myself, are experiencing a common trend—numerous recruiters and professionals reach out, express interest, and request resumes, only to disappear into thin air once we respond. No feedback, no updates, just radio silence. The question is, why?

The Frustration of Job Seekers

The hiring process has always been a challenge, but the past few years have made it even more unpredictable. Several candidates have noticed an unsettling pattern: recruiters or hiring managers show initial enthusiasm, ask for resumes, and sometimes even conduct preliminary discussions, only to disappear without further communication. This lack of closure leads to increased frustration, anxiety, and self-doubt among job seekers.

A simple response, even if it’s a rejection or an update on delays, would be much better than being left in the dark. Why has it become so difficult for recruiters to provide this basic courtesy?

Analyzing the Current Job Market Trends

To understand this ghosting phenomenon, let’s look at some possible reasons why it’s happening:

1. Oversaturation of the Job Market

The post-pandemic job market has created an influx of job seekers due to layoffs, career changes, and increased competition. As of 2024, there are over 10 million job seekers actively searching for new roles, while open job positions remain stagnant at 7 million, leading to an intense battle for available opportunities.

2. Changing Hiring Priorities

Many organizations initiate hiring processes only to put them on hold due to budget constraints, changing business strategies, or restructuring. Sometimes, recruiters reach out with potential opportunities but lose interest when hiring plans change internally.

3. AI and Automated Resume Screening

With the rise of AI-driven hiring tools, many initial engagements are automated. Once a recruiter collects resumes, AI systems filter candidates before a human ever gets involved. Studies indicate that 75% of resumes are rejected by AI before a recruiter even sees them. If a candidate doesn't make it past the algorithmic screening, they may never hear back.

4. Lack of Accountability in Hiring Practices

Ghosting is not just a candidate issue—recruiters and hiring managers also experience it in their organizations. Lack of clear communication within hiring teams sometimes leads to recruiters dropping off without updating candidates.

5. Mass Outreach Without Personalization

Some recruiters cast a wide net, reaching out to multiple candidates at once. When they find a better-suited candidate, they move on without closing the loop with others.

How Can We Fix This?

While job seekers cannot control how recruiters behave, there are some ways we can encourage better hiring etiquette:

• Encourage Transparency: Employers and recruiters should set realistic expectations about hiring timelines and processes.
• Provide Constructive Feedback: Even if a candidate is not selected, a brief response stating the reason (e.g., “We moved forward with another candidate” or “Your profile didn’t match our exact requirements”) would make a huge difference. Recruiters should also provide guidance on what aspects of a candidate’s profile can be improved to enhance their chances in future applications.
• Use Technology Wisely: AI should assist the hiring process, not dehumanize it. Companies must ensure candidates are data points and real people who deserve updates.
• Guide Job Seekers: Recruiters should take an extra step to offer advice on how candidates can better align their skills and experiences with job requirements. This can include resume tips, skill development, or insights into what employers seek.
• Hold Recruiters and Companies Accountable: Candidates should openly discuss their experiences on platforms like LinkedIn to bring attention to hiring issues and encourage change.

Best Practices for Recruiters

To improve the hiring process and reduce frustration, recruiters can follow these best practices:

?? Respond Promptly – Even a short message acknowledging receipt of an application can make a difference.

?? Provide Honest Feedback – A simple rejection reason can help job seekers improve.

?? Be Transparent About Hiring Timelines – Keeping candidates informed can prevent frustration.

?? Use AI Ethically – Ensure AI filters do not unfairly eliminate strong candidates.

?? Personalize Communications – Avoid mass outreach without follow-up.

A Call for Change

The hiring process should be a two-way street, built on respect and communication. If recruiters expect professionalism from job seekers, it’s only fair that they offer the same in return.

To all recruiters and hiring managers—please consider responding, even if it’s just a short message. Providing a reason for rejection and constructive feedback can make a significant impact on job seekers' career growth. To all job seekers—stay resilient, and let’s continue pushing for better hiring experiences!

What has been your experience in the current job market? Let’s discuss in the comments!