Is Your Recruiter Ghosting You? Here’s What to Do

It’s an unfortunate trend but ghosting has become increasingly common during the hiring process. As you go through your job search, you’ll likely face a few communication breakdowns. As such, it’s important to have a plan in place if you run into this problem, knowing what you want to do if a recruiter ghosts you.

First off, realize that it’s not something you should take personally. Ghosting has become a frustratingly familiar part of finding a position. One survey found that three-quarters of job seekers have experienced ghosting.

Typically, these situations come up when overburdened employers try to complete a hectic hiring process. It’s rare for a recruiter to fall into this trap. A top staffing agency, like SmartTalent, will make communication a central component of the process.

That said, ghosting is still possible at other agencies. Given that reality, you should have a plan in place. Here are the steps you should take if your recruiter is ghosting you:

Don’t Get Emotional

No one likes being ignored. Even in a professional situation, ghosting can stir strong emotions. These are heightened by the overall situation. Searching for a job already represents a stressful situation, fraught with frustration and even a tinge of desperation.

Ghosting can fuel these negative feelings. However, remember to keep cool. Approach the situation strategically and craft an action plan that maximizes your chances of finding a position you love.

Try Again

Recruiters can get busy. Vacations or communication tangles can mean your attempts to reach out got lost in the shuffle. Don’t give up immediately. Try touching base again and see if you get a better response.

Ghosting in these situations is different than in personal situations. Usually, a recruiter isn’t actively ignoring you. Yes, a lack of response shows bad service and should throw up a red flag. But a temporary glitch in the conversation shouldn’t immediately discourage you forever.

A close connection with candidates should serve as a core value for any recruiter. SmartTalent will deliver this personal approach. Reach out to SmartTalent to avoid ghosting in the first place — you’ll have an expert you can trust to guide you through the process.

Plan Your Response

Outline how you’ll react to the situation. In a rational, controlled way, map out the best response to the ghosting. That way, you can calmly weigh the best program for getting the job you want. Here are some steps to consider:

• Set a Timeline: Create a timeline of when you’ll check in again. This will let you put the situation on the back burner and concentrate on other job-search priorities.
• Switch to a Different Approach: Vary your methods of communication. For instance, if you don’t get an answer via email, attempt to call.
• Contact an Individual Directly: Find someone specific to contact. Rather than going through the main phone line or blasting emails to a generic account, target a particular individual in the organization.

Find a New Recruiter

Some recruiters just don’t offer the service you need. Make a reasonable effort to connect with a staffing agency. But, ultimately, if you aren’t getting the response you expect, it’s time to move on.

SmartTalent can help. You’ll never feel ignored or shunted aside. Rather, you’ll have the personalized guidance you need to get the most out of your next career decision.

Contact SmartTalent today to find the reliable recruiter you need.