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You apply for a job.
You get the interview invitation.
You attend, perform well…
Then silence.

No email.
No update.
No feedback.

Just ghosting.

If you’ve experienced this in Nigeria, you’re not alone. Thousands of job seekers face the same frustrating scenario every day.

But the real question is:

Why do Nigerian employers ghost candidates — and is there anything applicants can do to reduce it?

This article explains the most common reasons, and practical steps to protect yourself from being ignored.

Why Employers Ghost Candidates in Nigeria

1. Overwhelming Number of Applications

Some job postings receive:

• 500+ applications

• 1,000+ for entry-level roles

• Sometimes up to 5,000 on LinkedIn or Jobberman

Many HR teams are small, sometimes one person handling all recruitment.
It becomes impossible to respond to everyone.

2. Internal Candidates Already Exist

Some companies post vacancies because policy demands it, not because they’re actually looking outside.

An internal staff or referred candidate may already be selected.

External applicants only serve as “backup.”

3. The Vacancy Gets Paused or Cancelled

Sudden budget cuts, management changes, or restructuring can make HR freeze an ongoing recruitment process.

But companies rarely announce the cancellation.

4. The Hiring Manager Changes Their Mind

Sometimes the department head says:

• “We actually don’t need this role anymore.”

• “Let’s downgrade the level.”

• “Let’s shift this role to next quarter.”

HR cannot continue the process, but they also may not send individual updates.

5. You Were Good, But Someone Was Better

This happens often.

You were not rejected because you were bad…
But because another candidate was a stronger match.

Still, many companies do not provide feedback to avoid arguments or explanations.

6. Poor Interview Follow-Up From Candidates

Some applicants make these mistakes:

• Never sending a follow-up message

• Not expressing interest clearly

• Not asking for next steps

• Ghosting the employer after the interview

HR may assume you’re not serious.

7. Your CV Was Not ATS-Friendly

Even if you’re qualified, your CV may never reach a human if:

• The format is wrong

• You have too many graphics

• You use tables and images

• Your keywords don’t match

If the system filters you out, HR never sees your application — therefore, no response.

8. Unprofessional Behavior During the Process

Some candidates get ghosted because of:

• Arriving late

• Poor communication

• Being rude to the receptionist or HR

• Inconsistent answers

• Unpreparedness

• Asking for unrealistic salary

Companies may simply end communication without explanation.

9. HR is Under Pressure

Recruiters in Nigeria often handle:

• onboarding

• payroll

• disciplinary issues

• training

• administration

• compliance

• recruitment

Ghosting is sometimes not intentional — they’re simply overwhelmed.

How Job Seekers Can Reduce Ghosting

Here are practical steps you can take.

1. Write Strong CVs with the Right Keywords

Most ghosting starts at the CV stage.
Use job-specific keywords so the ATS picks you up.

For example, if the job says:

• “Customer service”

• “CRM tools”

• “Client communication”

Make sure these appear naturally on your CV.

2. Apply Early

Most recruiters shortlist the first set of applicants.
Applying after 2–3 days reduces your chances.

3. Send a Professional Follow-Up

After an interview, send a short message like:

“Good afternoon. I appreciate the opportunity to interview for the [Role] today. I remain very interested in the position and look forward to next steps. Thank you.”

It shows seriousness and professionalism.

4. Improve How You Communicate

Speak clearly.
Be confident.
Answer questions directly.
Show enthusiasm.

Good communication leaves a strong impression.

5. Build a Strong LinkedIn Presence

Recruiters often check your online profile before making decisions.

An updated LinkedIn page can help you stand out from other candidates.

6. Always Ask About Timelines

At the end of an interview, politely ask:

“What is the expected timeline for feedback?”

This helps you know when to follow up.

7. Apply Through Multiple Channels

Don’t rely on only one path.

Try:

• job boards

• LinkedIn

• company website

• HR email

• referrals

• WhatsApp job groups

If one fails, another might succeed.

8. Build Relationships, Not Just Applications

Sometimes the best way to avoid ghosting is to be the referred candidate.

Network with:

• HR professionals

• industry experts

• former colleagues

• mentors

• communities

People hire people they trust.

9. Stay Professional — Even If You Feel Ignored

Don't send angry messages like:

• “Why haven’t you responded?”

• “Is this how your company behaves?”

• “At least have the courtesy to reply.”

This damages your reputation permanently.

Instead, send polite follow-ups spaced a week apart.

Ghosting is painful and discouraging. But most of the time, it is not personal.
It’s a combination of:

• high application volume

• internal hires

• hiring delays

• recruiter stress

• mismatched expectations

The best way to reduce ghosting is to:

• apply strategically

• improve your CV

• follow up professionally

• build strong networks

• position yourself as the best candidate

You cannot control HR, but you can control how you show up.