How to Deal with Ghosting After Interviews

You’ve nailed the interview — or so you thought. The conversation flowed, you connected well with the interviewer, and you left feeling optimistic. Then days turn into weeks, and still, no word. You send a polite follow-up email, but it’s met with silence. You’ve officially been ghosted.

Nothing, no call or email.

It’s an unpleasant experience, and unfortunately, it’s becoming increasingly common. But rather than let it derail your confidence or motivation, there are constructive ways to handle the silence and move forward professionally.

1. Give It Some Time

Even when an employer says they’ll “get back to you next week,” internal processes can drag on. Hiring teams often face delays due to scheduling issues, budget approvals, or shifting priorities. If it’s only been a week or two, try not to panic just yet. Give it a bit of breathing room before assuming the worst.

2. Follow Up (Once or Twice, Politely)

If you haven’t heard back after the expected timeframe, it’s perfectly acceptable to send a short, courteous follow-up email. Keep it simple and professional — something like:

“Hi [Name], I hope you’re well. I wanted to follow up on the [Position Title] role and check if there’s been any update on the hiring process. I’m still very interested in the position and would appreciate any feedback or insight you can share.”

If there’s still no response after another week or so, you might send one final message expressing appreciation for their time and letting them know you’re moving forward with your search. After that — it’s best to let it go.

3. Don’t Take It Personally

Ghosting often says more about the company’s communication culture than about your performance. Many employers are juggling multiple priorities, and unfortunately, candidate communication sometimes falls through the cracks.It doesn’t mean you did something wrong or that you’re not a strong candidate. Remind yourself that silence isn’t rejection — it’s just silence.

4. Reflect on the Experience

While you wait, take a few moments to reflect. What went well in the interview? Were there

any questions you might answer differently next time? Self-reflection helps turn disappointment into something constructive.If you genuinely feel you performed strongly, take that confidence into your next opportunity — it’s a sign you’re on the right track.

5. Keep the Momentum Going

Don’t pause your job search waiting for one company to reply. Keep applying, networking, and preparing for other opportunities. Momentum is key to staying motivated and avoiding the emotional slump that often follows ghosting.Sometimes, the best cure for post-interview silence is another promising interview.

6. Protect Your Confidence

Rejection — or in this case, being ignored — can chip away at your self-esteem if you let it. Remember: your worth isn’t defined by one company’s lack of communication. Treat each interview as practice, and each setback as redirection.You’re still progressing, even when it doesn’t feel that way.

7. Keep It Professional

If you ever cross paths with that company or recruiter again, stay gracious. The professional world, particularly in Australia and the UK, can be surprisingly small. By remaining polite and composed, you demonstrate integrity — something that speaks louder than any ghosted email thread.

Final Thoughts

Being ghosted after an interview is never pleasant, but it’s also not the end of the world. The best way to handle it is with patience, professionalism, and perspective.Keep following up politely, but don’t dwell on it. Focus on the next opportunity, because the right role — and the right employer — will value your time and effort enough to respond.