The Danger Zone: Why Candidates Ghost After Accepting Offers

One of the most painful forms of ghosting is when it happens after an offer is signed. 28% of candidates, according to CareerPlug, drop off between acceptance and day one often because they feel disconnected or unsure during the waiting period.

This is where preboarding, not just onboarding becomes critical. A warm welcome email, an invitation to meet the team over coffee, or a simple branded message that says “we’re excited to have you” can turn a passive hire into an active advocate. Small gestures go a long way in reinforcing a candidate’s decision and reducing second thoughts.

We’ve helped several clients implement preboarding strategies that build enthusiasm from the moment a contract is signed. It’s a powerful way to prevent last-minute ghosting and start your new hire’s journey on the right note.

If you’d like support creating a more engaging post-offer experience, our team would love to share what’s working well across the industries we recruit in.