Being ghosted by a hiring manager is one of the most frustrating experiences that job seekers face. You’ve spent your time and efforts to research, prepare, interview, and have really gotten to know the company and get excited about them. You’ve made it to the end and you’re anxiously anticipating that job offer, but instead get hit with – nothing. No email or phone call, no answer when you reach out, no explanation for why you didn’t get the job. While there’s no guarantee that you won’t get ghosted by a hiring manager during an interview process, there are some simple things you do to reduce the chances of it happening.   

#1) Have upfront, early conversations about expectations 

One of the sales methodologies we encounter quite a bit is The Sandler Sales Method. Many Sandler Experts tell us that not only is it useful for impactful sales conversations, but it also works in other areas of life - such as a job interview. One of the Sandler principles suggests having upfront conversations about expectations before going further down any path together – whether in sales or in this case, between a candidate and hiring manager. Having that honest conversation right away regarding any expectations lets everyone know where they stand throughout the entire process, no matter what happens in future interactions. 

 #2) Manage expectations surrounding timeline 

Understanding the ideal hiring timeline allows you to better manage your expectations. Is the hiring manager hoping to bring someone on in the next couple weeks or will it be several months? The further out their timeline is, the more likely it is that you go weeks without hearing from them (and it doesn’t necessarily mean you are no longer being considered). At the end of each interview, ask when you can expect to hear about next steps. If they tell you that you will hear by next week and next week has come and gone, you know it’s time to follow up and ask for an update. Understanding and managing these expectations upfront will keep you clued into the process and allow you to follow up accordingly. 

 #3) Let Hiring Managers Know That “No” Is An Acceptable Response 

Telling a potential employer that it's ok for them to say "no" if they don't feel your skillset aligns with their opening may seem counterintuitive—but it actually helps build trust quickly. If a hiring manager feels comfortable being honest with you upfront, then they are less likely to go radio silent when they decide not to move forward with your candidacy. This also opens the door to more productive interactions where constructive feedback can be shared that could be beneficial for future interviews. 

Ghosting by a hiring manager can be incredibly disheartening no matter what stage of the interview process you’re at- And unfortunately it happens quite a bit. By taking proactive steps using principles from the Sandler Sales Method, setting and managing expectations upfront, and letting hiring managers know that you are receptive to a “no”, you can reduce the chance of being left completely in the dark.  

Reach out to me if you're looking to collaborate with a sales and marketing-focused recruiting firm in 2023!

Amy Schwartz is a Recruiting Manager at SalesFirst Recruiting and can be reached at amy@salesfirstrecruiting.com.