If you’re ghosted after an interview, follow a simple timeline: send a thank-you (if you haven’t), wait 2–3 business days, send a short follow-up, then a second follow-up about one week later. After that, assume it’s a “soft no” and keep your pipeline moving—without burning bridges.
- A clear follow-up timeline (day-by-day)
- Copy/paste scripts for email and LinkedIn
- How to tell “delayed” vs. “ghosted” signals
- When to stop following up (and why it’s not personal)
- How to protect your energy while you wait
Interview ghosting is brutal because it creates uncertainty. You’re not just waiting—you’re trying to interpret silence.
This guide gives you a repeatable process so you can take action, then move on.
First: confirm what “ghosted” actually means
Being “ghosted” after an interview usually means:
- you were told a timeline, it passed, and you’ve gotten no update
- your follow-ups get no response
- the recruiter goes quiet (even if they were responsive earlier)
Common reasons include internal delays (approvals, budgets), travel/OOO, competing candidates, role changes, and recruiter workload. Silence is still unprofessional—but it’s common.
The follow-up timeline (simple and effective)
Day 0: Send your thank-you (if you haven’t)
If you already sent one, skip this step.
Send a short thank-you within 24 hours
Keep it brief: appreciation + one specific detail + excitement + availability.
Day 2–3 (business days): First follow-up
Follow up once the stated timeline passes
If they gave a timeline (“we’ll get back by Friday”), wait until the next business day. If they gave no timeline, 2–3 business days is reasonable.
Day 7–10 (business days): Second follow-up
Send a second follow-up, then stop chasing
One more nudge is fine. After two follow-ups, further messages rarely help and can feel needy—especially if the team is already overwhelmed.
Two follow-ups is usually the sweet spot: it shows professionalism without turning into chasing.
Copy/paste follow-up scripts (email + LinkedIn)
Subject: Quick follow-up — [Role] interview Hi [Name], Hope you're doing well. I'm following up on the [Role] interview from [Day/Date]. I'm still very interested, and I'm happy to provide anything else you need. Do you have an updated timeline for next steps? Thanks again, [Your Name]
Subject: Checking in — [Role] next steps Hi [Name], Just checking in once more on the [Role] process. If the role has been filled or timelines have shifted, no worries—I'd appreciate any update when you have a moment. Thanks, [Your Name]
Avoid guilt trips (“I’ve been waiting forever”). Your goal is to make it easy for them to reply with a simple update.
Signs you’re delayed vs. signs you’re ghosted
| More likely delayed | More likely ghosted |
|---|---|
| Recruiter replies but says timeline shifted | No reply to 2 follow-ups, even after prior responsiveness |
| Role is still actively posted | Role posting disappears + silence |
| They asked for references / availability | No concrete next step after strong signals |
What to do while you wait (so you don’t spiral)
Treat it as one node in a pipeline
The emotional trap is making one company “the plan.” Build a pipeline so no single silence can control your week.
Keep applying (small, steady cadence)
A few good-fit applications per day keeps momentum without panic-applying.
Do one skill-increasing block per week
Interview practice, a portfolio tweak, or a case study review—something that compounds confidence.
This is exactly where automation can help: keeping your pipeline active while you wait—so you’re never dependent on one recruiter’s inbox.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I wait after an interview before following up?
If they gave a timeline, follow up the next business day after it passes. If they gave no timeline, 2–3 business days is reasonable for an initial follow-up.
Is it okay to follow up twice?
Yes. Two follow-ups is common and professional. After that, assume it’s a soft no and focus on other opportunities.
Should I message the hiring manager on LinkedIn?
Sometimes—but keep it short and respectful. If you have a recruiter contact, email is usually better. Avoid multi-channel chasing unless you truly have no point of contact.
What if I have another offer and need an answer?
Tell them directly and politely. Ask if they can share an updated timeline given your deadline. This is one of the few cases where a faster response is more likely.
Ghosted after interview: the playbook
- 1Send thank-you (if needed), then follow up after 2–3 business days (or after their stated timeline).
- 2Send a second follow-up about one week later, then stop chasing.
- 3Use short, calm scripts; ask for an updated timeline.
- 4Keep your pipeline moving so silence doesn’t derail you.