Ghosting Goes Both Ways: Why Employer Follow-Up is a Competitive Advantage
With Halloween right around the corner, it only feels fitting to talk about ghosting – a practice no hiring manager should ever take part in.
Ghosting, in this context, is when one side of the hiring process suddenly goes silent. Most of the time, we hear about candidates ghosting employers. But the truth is, it happens just as often the other way around. A candidate applies, maybe even interviews, and then… nothing. No email. No update. Just radio silence.
And while it might seem harmless (or even efficient) to move on without a follow-up, that silence can do some real damage.
Why It Matters
Candidates put time, energy, and hope into every application. When they don’t hear back, it’s more than just disappointing – it’s frustrating. And in a world where people share their experiences online, on ignored email can turn into a negative Glassdoor review, a viral TikTok, or a quiet warning passed between peers. Follow-up isn’t just about being polite. It’s about showing respect, building trust, and protecting your reputation.
What Good Communication Says About Your Business
Remember that there are real people behind all of those resumes, not just numbers & data points. When you follow-up, even with a rejection, you’re sending a message that your company values people. That you’re organized. That you care about the experience, not just the outcome. It also opens the door for future opportunities. A candidate who didn’t get the job today might be a perfect it next quarter. Or they might refer someone who is.
Easy Ways to Improve
You don’t need a big overhaul to make a difference. Here are a few simple ways to build follow-up into your process:
Set up automated status updates through your ATS
Send personalized rejection emails (even a short note goes a long way)
Encourage hiring managers to close the loop after interviews
Invite candidates to stay connected through your newsletter, talent community, or LinkedIn
Find a Trusted Talent Partner
Staying on top of the human side of hiring takes time and consistency. That’s where a talent partner like Juno can make a real impact. From managing candidate communications to building thoughtful follow-up workflows, Juno helps employers create a hiring experience that feels personal, respectful, and aligned with their brand. Whether you're scaling quickly or hiring selectively, Juno ensures that every candidate interaction reflects the values you want your brand to stand for.
The Long-Term Payoff
Silence might save time, but it costs trust. A quick follow-up can turn a “no” into a “not yet,” and a missed hire into a future advocate. In hiring, communication isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s a reflection of you are as an employer.
So let’s leave the ghosting to Halloween shenanigans.
Make Every Candidate Interaction Count
Respect, clarity, and follow-ups aren’t just nice-to-haves. They’re the foundation of a strong employer brand. Juno helps companies build hiring experiences that reflect their values and leave candidates feeling seen, heard, and respected.