Ghosting can happen at any stage: a candidate stops replying after applying, misses a booked interview without notice, or accepts an offer and never starts. Common causes include a faster offer elsewhere, long gaps between steps, unclear pay or shifts, and processes that demand a lot of effort before the employer shows any commitment. It shows up in metrics such as no-show rate and offer drop-out.
Speed is the most effective counter. Contacting applicants while they are still actively looking, keeping steps short and close together, and confirming pay, location and start date early all reduce ghosting. Text or email reminders help with booked steps. Employers ghost candidates too, and a process in which every applicant hears back sets a better tone on both sides.