Navigating the Ethics of Ghosting in Job Searches

In my previous article, Should You Write a Cover Letter, I recommended writing a cover letter can only help you. Recently, I read this article (refernce) about prevalence of Ghosting, so in this artcle I will discuss navigating the ethics of ghosting in your job search.

The job market has witnessed a worrying trend: the practice of 'ghosting' by both companies and job seekers. Ghosting, in the context of job searches, means abruptly ending communication without any warning or explanation. This trend, while notably discourteous, is particularly challenging for job seekers who have dedicated significant time and energy in the application process, often experiencing a severe letdown after multiple rounds of interviews. Recent data from Indeed reveals that a staggering 75% of US job seekers and 74% of employers acknowledge ghosting as a prevalent aspect of the hiring landscape.

Historically, employers were more commonly associated with ghosting, particularly during periods of high unemployment when they were overwhelmed with applications. However, in the current job market, with an unemployment rate around 3.7%, the tables have turned. Job seekers, now often in a position of advantage, are increasingly the ones disappearing mid-process, leaving recruiters and employers in a quandary.

Job seekers justify ghosting for various reasons: unsatisfactory job roles, low salary offers, inadequate benefits, or receiving better opportunities elsewhere. While these concerns are valid, one must ponder: Are they sufficient grounds for ghosting an employer?

A startling 70% of US job seekers feel ghosting employers is justifiable, and more than half (62%) plan to continue this practice in future job hunts, a marked rise from 37% in 2019. This raises an ethical dilemma: Is it appropriate for job seekers to 'return the favor' and ghost employers?

The desire to reciprocate previous ghosting experiences is understandable, but we must consider the long-term implications. What if the recruiter or hiring manager you ghosted today becomes a gatekeeper at your dream company tomorrow? How would your past actions impact future opportunities?

My counsel to job seekers is to view ghosting not merely as impolite but as shortsighted. Opting for professionalism and courtesy by sending a simple message such as, "I appreciate your time, but I am no longer interested in the position," takes less than a minute. This approach not only maintains your professional integrity but also keeps future doors open. After all, professionalism and respect are cornerstones of a successful career journey.

Although JobsGuru revolutionizes the job search process with its cutting-edge Generative AI technology, accelerating your path to employment, it's important to remember that most advanced AI alone can't govern professional etiquette. As a job seeker, it's crucial to be conscientious and uphold high ethical standards. Choosing to communicate transparently and respectfully with potential employers is more than just good manners; it's a strategic decision that can yield significant dividends in your career journey. Embrace the power of JobsGuru, but also embrace the responsibility of maintaining professional integrity throughout your job search.

In 2024, I will delve deeper into how to leverage JobsGuru.ai to accelarate your job search in series of articles.