Hospo Stories

Ghosting in Business: A Trend that Needs to End

Ghosting has become a common trend in the dating world, where one person cuts off all communication with another person without any explanation. Unfortunately, this trend has also made its way into the business world. Ghosting in business refers to when a candidate, employee, employer, or client suddenly stops responding to communication without explanation. This can lead to confusion, frustration and wasted time and resources.

The impact of ghosting in business can be significant. For example, when a candidate ghosts a company during the hiring process, it can result in delays in filling the position and lost opportunities to bring on the right candidate. Or, in reverse, the employer doesn't reply to all the applicants, which can lead to trust and brand reputation issues. Similarly, when an employee ghosts their employer, it can lead to missed deadlines, unfulfilled responsibilities, and the need to find a replacement. Unfortunately ghosting from the employer side happens as well. For example, when a manager doesn't respond to e-mails or purposely tries to avoid and ignore the more difficult subjects. This can lead to frustration, lack of trust and good employees leaving the company. Ghosting by clients can also cause missed opportunities for new business, damage to the company's reputation and financial losses.
The reasons for ghosting in business are varied and can range from too busy, not a priority or too difficult to a complete lack of professionalism and empathy. However, regardless of the reason, it is never acceptable. In a business setting, clear and direct communication is essential to establish trust and maintain relationships.
To combat ghosting in business, companies should prioritize clear communication and establish protocols for managing ghosting situations. They should also encourage employees to be open and honest about their intentions and to provide a clear explanation for their actions, rather than disappearing without a trace.

Ghosting in business is a concerning trend that needs to end. Clear communication and professionalism should be the norm in all business interactions. Companies need to prioritize this issue and work to establish protocols that promote open and honest communication to avoid the negative consequences of ghosting.