Have you ever opened your inbox, hoping for a reply that never came? Ghosting—it’s that deafening silence we’ve all felt, whether we’re on the giving or receiving end. Over dinner with colleagues recently, the conversation turned to ghosting in the workplace, and it got us thinking: why does it happen, and what can we do about it?
Ghosting—the sudden cessation of communication without explanation. At work, it sneaks in as emails vanishing into the void, proposals met with radio silence, job applicants left hanging after interviews, or mentors and mentees quietly fading away.
Have you been a ghoster or ghostee? When life gets overwhelming, it’s all too easy for low-priority emails or messages to slip through the cracks and turn into silence. But being on the receiving end of ghosting can feel like a form of social rejection, and leave questions about professionalism, integrity, and reputation - things we all value.
Being ghosted can sting. Research even shows that our brains process social rejection similarly to physical pain—no wonder it hurts! The lack of closure often leaves us questioning what went wrong and, even worse, leads to self-doubt and rumination
Why People Ghost: Ease, Overwhelm and Avoidance
Ghosting often happens because of time pressures and shifting priorities. When overwhelmed, it might feel like the easiest way to lighten the load. But does that make it okay? Depending on your perspective—or even your generation—you might see it as a normal reaction to the demands of a busy life or a serious breach of professional etiquette.
For many, especially in the moment, ghosting feels like the path of least resistance—avoiding the awkwardness of explaining why you haven’t responded. Be honest—how often have you put off replying to an email, thinking “I’ll get to it later” or “I don’t know how to say no,” only to never reply? Ignoring can feel so much easier than engaging.
The truth is, most people who ghost don’t intend any harm—they’re just trying to juggle their own chaos. With a million tasks competing for attention, it’s easy for less urgent matters to slip through the cracks. But while understandable, that silence can leave a lasting mark. What if we tried something different? A quick "I haven’t forgotten" or an honest "Sorry, this isn’t a priority for me right now" could offer clarity and ease the sting, turning ghosting into a moment of understanding instead.
Turning the Gap into Growth
For the ghosted, that silence can feel agonising—triggering rejection, overthinking, and self-doubt. But here’s the silver lining: it can also be a chance for growth. Ask yourself—were there signals you missed, or lessons you can take into the future? By viewing this as a chance for growth rather than a personal failure, you can come out of it stronger and more self-aware.
For the Ghosters:
Communicate early: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, just send a quick note to acknowledge the situation.
Set clear expectations: Let others know when you plan to follow up, even if it’s later than they might hope.
For the Ghosted:
Seek closure: If possible, follow up for clarity, but also know when it’s best to let go.
Self-reflect: Use the silence for personal growth—focus on what you can learn from the experience.
Move on with grace: Stay focused on your own path, recognising your value and worth.
Ghosting might be a sign of the times, but it doesn’t have to tarnish our professional relationships. With a little more open communication and a touch of self-compassion, we can turn these moments into opportunities for understanding, clarity, and even growth—making them far less painful and far more productive.
Kind regards
