A concerning rise in “ghosting” – where candidates sign employment contracts and subsequently fail to show for work – is exacerbating Germany’s existing labor shortages, according to a new study by the Competency Center for Skilled Worker Security (KOFA) at the Institute for German Economy (IW). Data gleaned from surveying 851 HR professionals across German companies this summer reveals a marked increase in this phenomenon, with nearly 15% reporting incidents of ghosting.
The study highlights a broader trend of instability within the German labor market, extending beyond the initial hiring phase. A significant 24% of surveyed businesses reported terminations during probationary periods, while an even larger 37% cited candidates rejecting job offers in favor of alternative opportunities. This represents a significant drain on resources and a disruptive effect on recruitment strategies already strained by the acute skills gap.
The rise in ghosting, while not entirely new, is amplified by the context of intense competition for qualified personnel. Sibylle Stippler, the study’s author, emphasized the critical importance of transparent communication and sustained engagement with potential hires. She argues that fostering a sense of commitment and trust through personalized contact and sincere feedback is crucial in mitigating the issue.
The findings raise questions about the evolving power dynamics in the labor market and the need for a recalibration of employer branding. While companies traditionally prioritized projecting a polished corporate image, the study suggests that a genuinely positive candidate experience is now a significantly more valuable asset in securing talent. This shift may necessitate a critical examination of recruitment processes, a move away from purely transactional interactions and a renewed focus on building lasting relationships with potential employees. The consequences of failing to adapt risk further destabilizing the German workforce and hindering economic growth.
