Survey Shows Job Seekers Of Color Experienced ‘Ghosting’ From Employers

A new survey from U.K.-based firm Greenhouse unveiled that 57% of job seekers surveyed had experienced “ghosting” from a prospective employer after a job interview. Some 800 U.K. employees took part in the survey, which focused on how they felt as they navigated the British labor market. As Essence reports, candidates who belong to underrepresented populations were ditched during the hiring process at a 20% higher rate than white applicants. 

The 2023 survey indicates that 53% of the job seekers who responded said that higher compensation drove their decisions when looking for positions. Other factors receiving increased attention were the ability to have flexible work conditions (33%) and the possibility of advancement in their careers (30%).

According to Colm O’Cuinnean, Greenhouse’s general manager of EMEA, these responses reveal that what employees want from jobs is changing, and employers should adjust. “Hybrid work is seen as the new norm given its proven success over the last few years. Also, salary transparency is sought after more than ever before. Organizations need to adapt to this new era of recruitment conditions or run the risk of missing out on top talent and ultimately business success,” said O’Cuinnean.

Greenhouse conducted another survey in 2022, this one revealing that 40% of Black applicants responded that they were asked discriminatory questions during job interviews.

According to Emeritus, a business insight website, companies who are serious about retaining their employees should invest in strategies aimed at reducing employee turnover. Not only is turnover costly in terms of salary costs, but it can lead to a domino effect, where more employees leave as their former colleagues’ work shares are dumped in their laps. This, they say, can lead to dissatisfaction among both customers and employees. In keeping with the findings of the Greenhouse survey, they cite a 2020 LinkedIn report indicating that 94% of employees will stay with a company that invests in the development of their career. As Rachel Hastings writes, “Employees who feel valued and believe that their companies are invested in their success will be happier, more productive, and more loyal—a win for everyone.”

In a November 2023 article, the Harvard Business Review says that due to shifts toward an embrace of discussing race in the workplace, even in industries where this used to be taboo, is leading Black employees to feel valued, and thus more valuable, at work.

RELATED CONTENT: Workplace Discrimination Lawsuits Are Up 50% According To EEOC Data