Ghosted by Recruiters? Here’s What to Do Next (Without Losing Your Mind)

Getting ghosted during a job hunt feels rough, doesn’t it? You send off a polished application, maybe ace a couple of interviews, and then… nothing. No callback, no polite rejection email, no sign of life. Just pure silence.

If this sounds like your experience, you’re definitely not alone. Ghosting is frustratingly common, especially here in the Netherlands (and not just in the dating game). The job market can be competitive, hiring processes are often lengthy, and, yep, communication can leave a lot to be desired. But here’s the thing: Ghosting isn’t a reflection of you or your worth. It’s a signal to regroup, rethink, and focus on what you can control next.

1. It’s Not (Usually) Personal

First off, don’t take it to heart. Many Dutch companies juggle huge hiring pipelines, and recruiters sometimes don’t have the bandwidth to get back to everyone. The role may have been filled internally, hiring priorities could’ve shifted, or your application might’ve just been overlooked. It’s annoying, but it’s not about you. Seriously.

2. Follow Up With Class

After about 7 to 10 business days of no word, it’s fair to chase things up. Keep your follow-up message short, polite, and easygoing. Something like this works wonders:

“Hi [Name], I just wanted to follow up on the status of the [Job Title] position. I’m incredibly enthusiastic about this role and would love to know if there’s anything further I can provide you with. Thanks for your time!”

Sometimes, this does the trick. If it doesn’t, move on, knowing you’ve demonstrated professionalism and persistence.

3. Fine-Tune Your Applications

Think of rejection (or silence) as a chance to tweak your approach. Dutch employers value efficiency and precision, so make sure your CV and cover letter reflect that. Use job-specific keywords to glide through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and focus on measurable achievements, not generic tasks.

For example, swap “Responsible for social media” for “Grew social media engagement by 40% in six months.” It’s punchier and exactly what recruiters here want to see.

New to the Dutch job hunt? Keep in mind that less is more. Here, overly flashy resumes often take a backseat to clean, straightforward layouts that highlight content over style.

4. Work That Dutch Network

Ah, networking. It’s powerful everywhere, but particularly in the Netherlands, where personal connections often open doors. Many jobs aren’t even advertised publicly. Imagine missing out just because you didn’t reach out?

Start small. Connect with professionals on LinkedIn, join industry-specific meetups, or get involved in expat communities. Those coffee chats (yes, even virtual ones) can lead to valuable advice and, sometimes, job leads.

Pro tip for expats: Check out local forums, Facebook groups, and Meetups in cities like Rotterdam, Amsterdam, or The Hague. You’d be amazed at the hidden opportunities shared in these circles.

5. Stay Top-of-Mind Online

Recruiters and hiring managers do their homework. That means your LinkedIn profile shouldn’t just exist; it should thrive. Be active. Share insightful articles, comment on posts, and even talk about your own job-search journey (authentically, of course).

Dutch employers appreciate initiative and thought leadership. Show them you’re engaged and motivated, and you might just land your next role through a random online connection.

6. Press Pause, Not Stop

Job hunting here (or anywhere) can be draining. Take breaks when you need to rather than pushing yourself to the brink. Whether it’s a walk in a local park, a weekend trip, or just binge-watching something silly, recharging isn’t just OK; it’s necessary. When you come back to the search, you’ll feel sharper and more focused.

And remember, in the Dutch job market, good things often take time. Stay patient, trust the process, and keep showing up for yourself.

Final Thoughts

Ghosting isn’t the end of the road, it’s just an annoying bump. Each “no” (or awkward silence) leads you closer to a “yes.” Stay curious, keep learning, and never underestimate the power of one well-timed conversation or connection. That next opportunity might be closer than you think.

So, if you’re done playing the guessing game with your job search in the Netherlands, book a free discovery call with Kanta Clarity Coaching and unlock the tools and strategies you need to thrive in this unique job market. Whether you’re navigating a career change, adapting to expat life, or simply burned out from being ghosted, we’re here to help.