Kaufer said he’s unbothered by people not responding to his messages. He explained that he kept a pretty low profile as Tripadvisor’s CEO, preferring to be in the thick of business problems and operations, only wanting to do speaking gigs when the publicity would help the company.
A career expert tells Fortune that there are a few common reasons why professionals get ghosted, and shares steps on how to deal with the silent rejection. The truth is ghosting isn’t always personal—and there’s no harm in following up, strengthening other industry connections, and tailoring professional materials to get visibility. Ghosting may even be a “blessing in disguise.”
“Getting ghosted or shut out after leaving a position can happen, and even high-level leaders aren’t immune to it,” Jasmine Escalera, career expert for LiveCareer, tells Fortune. “Always remember that rejection or silence is just part of the process, not a representation of how awesome you are as a candidate.”
Tripadvisor’s former CEO being left on read is a high-profile example of a very common professional habit that’s hurting workers and employers alike.
“Being ghosted can actually be a blessing in disguise. Just like in dating, if someone disappears without a word, they’re simply not the right match,” Escalera says.
“The same goes for companies, hiring teams, or recruiters. If they’re not communicating, it could very well be a sign that they’re not the environment where your skills and contributions will be truly valued.”
Job-seekers may feel powerless when a connection or hiring manager has ghosted them—but career expert Escalera suggests a few ways workers can make the most of it.
While it can be very dejecting for workers to be ghosted by others, Escalera says it’s important for professionals to keep their heads held high. The right companies or opportunities will come.
“The right company will make it known they want you by engaging, following up, and making space for your brilliance,” Escalera says. “Keeping a positive mindset and knowing your worth helps reframe ghosting not as rejection, but redirection toward better-aligned roles and companies.”
