Resume Genius Finds 55% of Job Seekers Cite Employer Ghosting as Top Frustration

3 articles · Updated · CPAPracticeAdvisor.com · May 13

A survey of 1,000 active U.S. job seekers found 55% said never hearing back after applying was their biggest hiring frustration, ahead of post-interview ghosting at 44% and long delays between stages at 37%.
The same 2026 Resume Genius report tied that hiring silence to mental strain: 47% said rejections hurt most, 46% cited not hearing back, and 45% pointed to financial pressure and struggling to stay motivated.
Nearly half of respondents—49%—said job hunting has had a negative effect on their mental health, while 38% reported no impact and 13% said the experience had been positive.
Released during Mental Health Awareness Month, the findings highlight how an unpredictable job market, widespread layoffs and intense competition are amplifying stress beyond the workplace itself.

As employer ghosting hits a record high, is the hiring process becoming permanently dehumanized by AI?

Employers face a flood of bot applications. Is ghosting now an unfortunate but necessary hiring tool?

With AI writing resumes and screening applicants, how can job seekers prove their authentic human value?