Five things students can do when they’re ghosted after graduation

Applying for jobs after university is stressful enough – and then comes the silence. You’ve perfected your CV, fired off application after application, and… nothing. Not even a “thanks but no thanks.”

Introducing: graduate ghosting. It’s basically the workplace version of being left on read – except, instead of waiting for a “you up?” reply, you’re endlessly refreshing LinkedIn in the hope that a recruiter remembers you exist.

And, it’s not just you. According to our global student survey, 37% of students never hear back from employers, while more than a third (35%) don’t get replies from at least half their applications. Even worse, one in twelve say they’re completely ghosted by up to 80% of employers. Ouch..

So, how do you cope when recruiters vanish into thin air? Here are five practical steps to keep your sanity (and your confidence) intact.

1. Don’t take it personally (seriously)

Yeah, we know – easier said than done. But here’s the thing: ghosting usually says more about the employer’s process (or lack of one) than about you, and your potential. Some companies get hundreds of applications, and simply don’t have the capacity to respond to everyone.

Try reframing the situation. You’re not being rejected, you’re just not being contacted. Your skills, effort, and energy are still valid – even if that one employer didn’t give you the courtesy of an update.

2. Track your applications like a pro

Ghosting feels worse 10x worse when you’re lost in a pile of unanswered emails. Instead, start keeping a spreadsheet (or use job-hunting apps) to track where you’ve applied, when you sent it, and what the next step should be.

This method helps avoid the dreaded “endless void of silence” and brings in a more organised search strategy. Plus, it helps you spot which sectors or roles are giving you the most engagement.

3. Ask for feedback (when you can)

Not every employer replies, but when one does (even with a rejection), hit them back with a polite “thanks” and ask for feedback. You won’t always get it - but when you do, it’s gold.

It shows initiative, helps you level up, and proves you’re genuinely serious about developing your skills. And, it might even make the employer remember you down the line.

4. Build your skills in the meantime

According to our research, eight in ten students are already considering postgrad study to boost their CVs. But, upskilling doesn’t have to mean jumping straight back into the lecture hall.

Think free online courses, volunteering, side hustles, and internships. All of these show initiative and help fill the “experience gaps” employers love to highlight.

Basically, date yourself before the right job comes along - you’re investing in your own growth while waiting for the best match. 

5. Protect your peace

Let’s be real: graduate ghosting chips away at self-esteem – there’s no sugar-coating that. But, protecting your confidence is essential to stay motivated. Keep a running list of your wins (coursework, part-time jobs, society roles, personal projects) and remind yourself: you do bring value (and to bring up once you do land that interview).

And the golden rule? Don’t stop applying. Persistence pays off - even if it feels like you’re screaming into the void right now.

Life after ghosting: you’ve got this

At Yugo, we know the job hunt after graduation can feel overwhelming and daunting. That’s why we created and built our Live Your Best Life programme – to help you build the resilience, confidence, and career skills you’ll need to navigate the silence, and come out stronger. 

Because sure, employers might ghost. But your  potential? That’s not going anywhere.

Fancy reading more about our recent research? You can check out the full details here. Or, discover how the ‘hidden curriculum’ can help you in your journey to graduate employment.