Have you ever been ghosted on LinkedIn? You’re not alone. Former TripAdvisor CEO Steve Kaufer recently shared his surprising experience of being ignored on the platform after stepping down from his leadership role. Ghosting in hiring has skyrocketed by 112% since 2020, leaving professionals frustrated and confused. Let’s dive into why this trend is growing and how you can navigate it.
Why is ghosting in hiring becoming so common?
Ghosting isn’t just happening to job seekers – even high-profile executives like Kaufer are experiencing it. According to Glassdoor, mentions of ghosting in job interview reviews increased by 112% between 2020 and 2023. This trend affects both sides of the hiring process:
- 69% of HR professionals admit to ghosting candidates
- 75% of job-seekers have ignored prospective employers
- 93% of Gen Z workers have skipped interviews
How LinkedIn ghosting impacts professional networking
Kaufer’s experience highlights how professional relationships can change when someone leaves a high-profile position. Career expert Jasmine Escalera explains this isn’t personal – it’s often about shifting priorities. She suggests viewing ghosting as potential redirection toward better opportunities.
Job search trends: The rise of ghost jobs
Another concerning trend is ‘ghost jobs’ – fake listings posted to create a false image of growth. About 60% of candidates report encountering these misleading postings with no follow-up from employers.
Career advice for handling professional ghosting
Escalera offers practical strategies for dealing with ghosting:
- Build relationships beyond your current title
- Highlight transferable skills in applications
- Follow up politely with silent connections
- Expand your network continuously
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why do recruiters ghost candidates?
A: Common reasons include overwhelming applicant volumes, changing priorities, or poor communication practices.
Q: How should I respond to being ghosted?
A: Send one polite follow-up, then move on. Focus on opportunities where there’s mutual interest.
Q: Are ghost jobs illegal?
A: While not illegal, they’re considered unethical. They waste candidates’ time and damage employer brands.
Q: How can I avoid being ghosted in my job search?
A: Research companies thoroughly, network for referrals, and follow up strategically without being pushy.
