The recruiting process can be a tricky dance between candidates and recruiters, with both parties trying to navigate the ins and outs of finding the perfect fit. But one thing that should never happen during this dance is ghosting by either party. Ghosting, or disappearing without a trace, is a frustrating and unprofessional move that can leave both candidates and recruiters feeling upset, discouraged, and in the dark.
Candidate ghosting can be a tempting move when a job opportunity doesn’t seem like the perfect fit and you were merely “kicking the tires” to see what’s out there. But there are a few reasons why you should resist the urge to ghost. Firstly, it’s unprofessional and can harm your reputation in the industry. Secondly, recruiters will remember you in the future and if they’ve had a negative experience with you, it could impact future job opportunities. Lastly, ghosting can lead to missed opportunities – even if this particular role doesn’t seem like the right fit, recruiters may have other positions that you would be interested in.
On the other side, recruiter ghosting can be equally frustrating. Leaving a candidate hanging because a recruiter is too busy to provide timely feedback or never really liked the candidate in the first place can leave a lasting impression on a candidate. After all, one can be a candidate today and a client tomorrow. The recruiter’s image will be eternally damaged and with a limited chance of repair.
So what can we do to avoid ghosting by recruiters or by candidates? For candidates, it’s important to communicate effectively and respectfully. If you’re no longer interested in a position, simply let the recruiter know. They’ll appreciate the feedback and will be able to move on to other candidates who are a better fit. Similarly, recruiters should also communicate clearly and in a timely manner. If a candidate is no longer being considered for the position, let them know so they can move on to other opportunities.
By avoiding recruiter ghosting, both candidates and recruiters can ensure a positive experience, build stronger professional relationships, and avoid any awkwardness down the line. So let’s commit to clear communication, respect, and professionalism throughout the recruiting process.