In today’s fast-paced job market, communication between employers and candidates is more important than ever. Yet, many job seekers report a frustrating experience known as HR ghosting—when a recruiter or hiring manager suddenly stops responding at any stage of the hiring process. Whether it happens after an initial application, a promising interview, or even after receiving verbal confirmation, HR ghosting can leave candidates confused, discouraged, and unsure of their next steps.
HR ghosting occurs when a company or recruiter ends communication with a candidate without explanation. This silence can happen:
In short, HR ghosting is the unexpected disappearance of communication from someone involved in the hiring process.
While ghosting is often seen as unprofessional, there are several reasons why it happens—some intentional, others not.
Recruiters often manage dozens of job openings and hundreds of applications. Communication can fall through the cracks, especially in understaffed HR departments.
Budget cuts, sudden internal changes, or shifts in company strategy can pause or cancel a role altogether—without any formal announcement to candidates.
Some companies lack automated systems to send rejection emails or status updates, resulting in candidates being unintentionally ignored.
Some recruiters find it difficult to deliver bad news and may choose silence over communication—though it’s not professional.
If the employer moves forward with another candidate, they may stop communication with others rather than sending a proper closure email.
While you can’t control HR behavior, you can take steps to protect yourself and stay proactive.
Wait 3–5 business days before sending a polite email asking for an update or next steps.
A second follow-up after a week is reasonable. If there’s no reply after two attempts, it’s time to move on.
Never pause your job search for a single opportunity, no matter how promising it seems.
Use the experience to refine your resume, interview skills, or portfolio.
Ghosting often says more about internal HR issues than your qualifications.