Ghosting in Business Contexts: An Approach to Operationalization

Teichert, Laureana Anna Erika (2025) Ghosting in Business Contexts: An Approach to Operationalization. E-CONOM, 14 (1). pp. 92-114. ISSN 2063-644X

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Abstract

Ghosting, originally known as an interpersonal phenomenon, has spread to professional contexts, particularly in recruitment processes. Companies are faced with the challenge of candidate ghosting, where applicants break off contact wit-hout prior indication or explanation of reasons. While the phenomenon is present in the public debate, there is a lack of scientific research from the perspective of companies. This review takes a systematic approach to operationalising candi-date ghosting in recruitment processes in order to analyse existing methodologi-cal concepts and develop a suitable research design. Using a literature review and a four-stage assessment approach, existing studies are analysed in terms of their generalisability, their focus on company processes and their ability to identify candidates’ ghosting tendencies. The results show that previous research is often focused on candidate perspectives and rarely provides company-relevant recom-mendations for action. Based on the identified research gaps, an optimal metho-dological design is proposed that utilises quantitative approaches and relies on company accessible data. This review contributes to better prediction and pre-vention of candidate ghosting in recruitment processes and supports companies in developing targeted recruitment strategies. JEL-codes: D81, M50, M51

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