“Ghosting” has made its way from the world of dating into the workplace. Many employees have left their jobs without trace and candidates aren’t showing up for scheduled interviews.
“You’ve got more job openings than candidates… It’s a buyers’ market right now,” said LinkedIn editor-in-chief Dan Roth in an interview with CBS. Job seekers are emboldened by this strong job market and many see ghosting as retribution for the way employers have treated them in the past.
No matter your reasons for doing it, ghosting could come back to haunt you. Here’s why and what to do instead.
Employers Won’t Forget
Unlike the dating world, employers have your contact info. They will hold on to it and remember your name.
The further you went through the interview process, the worse the repercussions for ghosting can become. They’ll talk with other employers in the industry to air their grievances, which may affect your offers elsewhere.
As for leaving a company without a trace, you’re not just burning a bridge, you’re throwing away a reference and negating all the hard work you put into that place.
As tempting as it may be, you never know what the future holds.
Acknowledge The Options You Don’t Choose
With job hunting, employers know you have options right now. If you accept an offer elsewhere, a simple email will suffice.
If you accepted a job, then a got a better offer somewhere else, just tell them. Though remember: they’ve put time and energy into your recruitment, so offering a measure of understanding and possibly an apology can ease their frustrations and protect your reputation.
Like we said, recruiters will remember.
Break Up With Your Job In Person
Leaving a job without a trace can make people think the worst about your physical safety. If they then see you’ve updated your LinkedIn with a new job, this could lead to a furious response. There’s nothing stopping them from publicly shaming you on social media.
While an email or phone call is enough if you’re declining a job offer or not showing up for an interview, a company you’re working for deserves a face-to-face.
When you sit down with them, put your reason for leaving in terms of the work. Leaving you and them out of it will create distance, so it doesn’t feel personal.
Remember
Even though it’s a buyers’ market, the market always turns and your actions today could affect your employment years from now. Recruiters will remember you.
Whether you’re leaving your current job or seeking a new one, honest and open communication with current or potential employers is the best policy.
Employ Partners can offer you flexibility in finding the right job, from contract work to direct hire positions. Get in touch today to find out how we leverage our employer partnerships to find the perfect match for you.
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