You’ve sent out countless resumes, written thoughtful cover letters, and applied to jobs that seem like perfect fits. Maybe you’ve even had a promising conversation with a recruiter or interview with an employer. But then, nothing. Days turn into weeks, and the response you were hoping for never comes.
This silence, known as “ghosting,” isn’t just a Halloween scare—it’s a shared experience in today’s job market. I’ve been through it myself—both before and after interviews, so I understand how discouraging it can be. Here’s how to handle being ghosted and keep your spirits high during your job search.
Why Does Ghosting Happen?
Employers might go silent for many reasons: internal changes, budget cuts, or simply being overwhelmed by applications. Often, it’s not a reflection of your qualifications or performance but rather the company’s circumstances. On the other hand, keep in mind that employers can also feel the frustrations of being ghosted when candidates disappear after interest. In both cases, juggling multiple responsibilities and lapses in communication are often the cause.
How to Handle Being Ghosted
- Don’t Take It Personally: Ghosting feels like rejection, but it’s not a measure of your worth. The job market is competitive, and sometimes the silence is due to factors beyond your control.
- Follow Up, But Be Mindful: If you haven’t heard back after 10-14 days of applying or interviewing, it’s okay to send a polite follow-up email. However, if there’s no response after two follow-ups, it’s best to move on and focus on other opportunities.
- Keep Applying: Don’t get too attached to any one opportunity. Continue applying to other positions, attending networking events, and staying open to new possibilities.
- Lean on Your Support System: Ghosting can feel isolating, but you’re not alone. Reach out to friends, family, a mentor, or a career consultant for encouragement and advice. Sometimes, talking through the experience helps you regain motivation and a fresh perspective.
- Reflect and Learn: Every application and interview is a learning experience. Reflect on what went well and what could be improved. This mindset will help you grow and prepare for future opportunities.
Staying Motivated
Set small, manageable goals each week, such as applying to a few jobs or reaching out to alumni. These incremental steps help maintain momentum, even when progress seems slow.
Remember, being ghosted is not the end of your journey—it’s just part of the process in finding the right opportunity. Stay patient, keep applying, and trust that your persistence will lead to success.
If you’re navigating the job search and could use some support, the UGA Career Center is here for you. Whether you need help polishing your application materials or simply want to talk through your experiences, we’re ready to guide you through the process.