As employers are finding it harder and harder to fill positions, a new problem that is arising is job abandonment and applicants disappearing in the middle of a hiring process. In this episode of The Workplace, CalChamber Executive Vice President and General Counsel Erika Frank discusses employee “ghosting” with attorney and employment law expert Jennifer Shaw. In the podcast, they describe this new phenomenon and the legal implications that may arise for employers.
Applicants Are Driving the Bus
It’s an applicant’s market, which means employment seekers are less desperate and are likely presented with new opportunities frequently, Shaw tells Frank. Unfortunately, this is leading to applicants ignoring inquiries from potential employers after submitting resumes or simply not showing up to interviews.
Employers might be left wondering if they can move on in the hiring process.
Clear communication is important, Shaw says. Employers should establish a procedure to follow—especially if they have made a job offer. In particular, a job offer letter should explicitly give a “respond by” deadline.
When Employees Ghost
When employees abandon the workplace, employers may wonder if the employee was having an emergency or illness. Again, Shaw says, “Clear communication is everything.” Employers should establish a job abandonment policy that establishes deadlines, but is vague enough to accommodate employees with genuine emergencies.
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