Reports of workplace ghosting are on the rise this Halloween as 61% of candidates have experienced post-interview ghosting in recent years. A shortage of vacancies, job offers that disappear overnight, and onboarding processes that suddenly go cold all lead to a frightening experience for job seekers. 

Once a problem mainly faced by hiring managers, ghosting has flipped sides, with companies now vanishing on candidates without explanation. 

Experts at the job search platform JobLeads have shared practical and actionable tips to help professionals avoid being ghosted by a potential employer.

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1. Request a timeline

    Inquire about their internal processes once the interview is over. Clear communication of the hiring timeline helps manage expectations from the outset and avoids misinterpretation on both sides. If you don’t ask, you won’t know until it’s too late.

    This will help to identify whether you’re being ghosted or the hiring process is just expected to take a little longer and imply you are organised and serious about the role. As the interview comes to an end, politely ask when you’re likely to hear back; this way you can plan follow-ups without seeming impatient.

    2. Clean up your socials

      We’ve all heard it before, but it’s true.

      Jan Hendrik von Ahlen, Co-Founder and Managing Director at JobLeads comments: “Your social presence is an influential tool that can either boost or hinder your career. By understanding the impact of what you post, and taking steps to manage your profiles accordingly, you can present yourself as a highly appealing candidate to potential employers.”

      “First, make your personal social media accounts private. You never know who is looking (and with 70% or more of prospective employers admitting to doing social background checks, this likely includes them!). Second, be mindful of what you post online. Always think twice before sharing.”

      “With the increased popularity of calling out employers for their habits on social media, think carefully about the perception of anything you post that puts others in a bad light, or that criticises without being constructive. If you’re willing to do it publicly, they’ll assume you’d be willing to do so in other contexts, too. Which might lead to a hard ‘no’ for that job offer.”

      3. Follow-up once the deadline hits

        Remind them you’re there and excited! If you haven’t heard back from the employer once their deadline comes around, check for any updates by sending a polite message showcasing your eagerness for the role.

        Create a clear and straightforward subject line, reintroduce yourself, express gratitude, request a status update and close with a thank you.

        Lots of things can get in the way, whether the hiring manager has been on annual leave, an urgent work matter has come up or there are more applicants than expected. It’s okay to nudge when you’re waiting.

        4. Contact another person at the organisation

          If this was part of a multi-stage interview, reach out to another point of contact you may have at the company. Whether it’s another person who conducted your interview or a member of the hiring team, consider emailing a different contact to see whether they can provide any clarity on the situation.

          Why does it happen and what can applicants do going forward?

          Workplace ghosting often happens when companies are overwhelmed by large volumes of applicants, experience sudden hiring freezes, or fail to maintain consistent communication during the recruitment process. In some cases, internal changes or shifting priorities mean roles are quietly dropped without notice. 

          For applicants, the key is to stay proactive. Follow up professionally after interviews, keep applying elsewhere until an offer is confirmed, and focus on employers with transparent and respectful hiring practices.

          “Setting small, achievable goals can help keep you on track for future applications. Break down your tasks, like networking or applying for a set number of jobs each week, and celebrate those wins along the way. Remember, job hunting is a marathon, not a sprint, so take care of yourself, stay organized, and keep your end goals in sight.

          “To really stand out in a crowded job market, it’s important to go beyond the basics. Tailor your resume and cover letter to each specific job, highlighting what makes you a perfect fit.

          “Networking is also key; build genuine relationships with people in your industry, and let your passion and expertise shine through in your conversations and online presence. Employers are looking for someone who not only fits the job but is excited about the opportunity.”