We recently completed a survey across LinkedIn focusing on “As a Job Seeker, Where in Your Job Search Are You Experiencing the Most Ghosting?

From 775+ survey respondents

66% said Job Rejections Notifications.
Twenty-Three percent (23%) said After Initial Interviews.
Only 24% said Lack of Application Confirmations
And 7% said After Late Stage Interviews.

Ghosted and Frustrated: What Job Seekers Are Really Facing in 2025

In 2025, the job search landscape has become more digital, more competitive, and unfortunately, more silent. A recent LinkedIn survey of over 775 job seekers revealed a troubling trend: ghosting is rampant at nearly every stage of the hiring process. But where is it happening most, and why?

Survey Results: Where Ghosting Hits Hardest

Here’s what respondents said when asked, “As a Job Seeker, Where in Your Job Search Are You Experiencing the Most Ghosting?”

66% – Job Rejection Notifications
23% – After Initial Interviews
24% – Lack of Application Confirmations
7% – After Late-Stage Interviews

Let’s break down what these numbers mean—and what might be causing them.

1. Job Rejection Notifications (66%)

This was the most common pain point by far. Two-thirds of job seekers said they never hear back after applying, even when they’re clearly not selected.

Why It Happens:

Volume Overload: Recruiters are often inundated with hundreds of applications per role.
Automation Gaps: Many applicant tracking systems (ATS) can send auto-rejections, but not all companies use them effectively.
Avoidance Culture: Some HR teams may avoid sending rejections to sidestep potential backlash or negative Glassdoor reviews.

Why It Matters:

Not receiving a rejection leaves candidates in limbo, unable to move forward confidently with other opportunities.

2. After Initial Interviews (23%)

Nearly a quarter of respondents said they were ghosted after their first interview, a stage where personal interaction has already occurred.

Why It Happens:

Poor Communication Protocols: Some companies lack structured follow-up processes.
Decision Paralysis: Hiring teams may delay decisions or shift priorities without informing candidates.
Lack of Accountability: Without internal pressure to close the loop, follow-ups fall through the cracks.

Why It Matters:

This is where ghosting feels most personal. Candidates invest time and energy, only to be met with silence.

3. Lack of Application Confirmations (24%)

One in four job seekers said they don’t even receive confirmation that their application was received.

Why It Happens:

Outdated Systems: Some companies still rely on manual processes or email-based applications.
Neglected Candidate Experience: Application confirmations are a basic courtesy that some employers overlook.

Why It Matters:

A simple confirmation email can build trust and show respect for the candidate’s time.

4. After Late-Stage Interviews (7%)

While this was the least common, it’s arguably the most damaging. Being ghosted after multiple rounds of interviews is both demoralizing and unprofessional.

Why It Happens:

Internal Shifts: Budget cuts, hiring freezes, or internal hires can derail the process.
Fear of Confrontation: Some hiring managers may avoid delivering bad news directly.
Lack of Empathy: At this stage, ghosting reflects a serious disregard for the candidate’s investment.

Why It Matters:

Late-stage ghosting can leave candidates emotionally and professionally drained, especially if they’ve turned down other opportunities.

What Can Be Done?

For Employers:

Leverage Technology: Use automation to send timely updates at every stage.
Train HR Teams: Emphasize communication, empathy, and professionalism.
Create Accountability: Make candidate experience a measurable KPI.

For Job Seekers:

Follow Up: Don’t hesitate to check in after interviews or applications.
Document Your Process: Keep track of where you’ve applied and who you’ve spoken to.
Don’t Take It Personally: Ghosting is often a reflection of internal disorganization, not your worth.

Final Thoughts

Ghosting isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a systemic issue that erodes trust in the hiring process. With the tools and technology available in 2025, there’s no excuse for silence. Employers who prioritize communication will not only attract better talent but also build stronger reputations.

And for job seekers: keep pushing forward. The right opportunity, and the right company will value your time, your effort, and your humanity.

Job Search Coaching for Executives

Global Expansion, Inc. (d.b.a. Job Search Coaching) is a Premier Success Fee-Based Job Search and Global Job Search Company helping Executive Level Job Seekers All Around The World find their next job. We have over 7 years of experience helping executive level professionals secure high-paying roles across the globe. We are not recruiters, we are your personal job search strategists.

Unlike traditional recruiting firms, we don’t work for companies. Our clients are individual job seekers, executives like you who are ready to take the next step in their careers. We specialize in Success Fee-Based Job Search Coaching that accelerates your job search and maximizes your results. See Our Full List of Job Search Clients. Need help - Check Out Our Job Search FAQs