Applying Online & Never Hearing Back: The Ghosting Epidemic in Job Hunting

You update your resume, craft the perfect cover letter, click "Apply"... and wait. Days pass. Weeks, sometimes. You never hear a word.

Job ghosting has become one of the most frustrating parts of modern job hunting. You're not alone—it's a systemic issue, but that doesn't make it less painful.

Why It Happens:

• Your resume didn’t make it through the automated filter.
• The company filled the role but never closed the listing.
• They're disorganized, overwhelmed, or simply don't respond unless you're moving forward.

What You Can Do:

• Tailor every resume. Match keywords to the job post—especially in the first few lines.
• Reach out directly. A quick LinkedIn message to the hiring manager can bump you to the top.
• Track your applications. Follow up after 5–7 business days. A polite nudge shows professionalism.

Being ignored isn’t your fault. But you can increase your odds by making your presence impossible to overlook.