Ron Macklin and Deb Dendy
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Ghosting has become an all-too-familiar term in today's digital age. Whether in personal relationships or professional settings, the act of suddenly cutting off all communication without explanation can leave lasting emotional and professional scars. In this discussion, Ron and Deb explore the multifaceted phenomenon of ghosting and its implications on both sides of the interaction.
Ron begins by questioning the definition of ghosting. Deb provides a clear definition, referencing the Oxford dictionary: ghosting is the practice of ending a personal relationship with someone by suddenly and without explanation withdrawing from all communication. They both agree that ghosting signifies a complete end to communication, not merely a temporary pause.
The conversation then shifts to the emotional impact on those who are ghosted. Ron and Deb share their personal experiences, highlighting how initial confusion often leads to self-blame. Both revisit their steps repeatedly, wondering if they made a mistake in the coordination or communication. This phase typically lasts a few minutes, after which concern for the other person's well-being takes over.
However, when it becomes evident that the person has chosen to ghost, feelings of hurt and frustration surface. For Ron, it becomes clear that the relationship is over, and he consciously decides to move on. He shares a personal policy: if someone does not respond after three attempts to reach out, he considers the ghosting complete.
In a professional context, ghosting can have severe ramifications. Ron and Deb discuss how both employers and employees can behave unprofessionally by ghosting each other. Deb highlights scenarios where job applicants fail to show up for interviews or respond to follow-ups. She speculates on their possible reasons, ranging from having found another job to simply avoiding the discomfort of difficult conversations.
Ron points out the long-term consequences for individuals who ghost professionally. They may burn bridges and lose future opportunities, as they are remembered for their lack of professionalism. Conversely, employers who ghost candidates damage their own reputations and risk losing qualified talent.
Ron and Deb agree on the importance of maintaining respect and dignity in all communications. They emphasize the need to treat every interaction, personal or professional, as an opportunity to build relationships and trust. By offering a simple acknowledgment, such as informing a job candidate that a position has been filled, both parties can walk away with their dignity intact.
Deb outlines her approach to managing job applicants: she carefully reviews each resume, engages in conversations with qualified candidates, and ensures respectful, dignified rejections for those who are not a fit. This practice not only preserves future possibilities but also maintains a positive reputation for her organization.
Ron introduces a broader perspective on personal growth and skill development. He highlights that consistently taking on challenging tasks makes them easier over time. Ghosting, conversely, is often a symptom of avoiding difficult conversations, which ultimately stunts personal growth and resilience. By facing difficult interactions head-on, individuals can develop the skills needed to create and maintain valuable relationships.
Deb touches on the role of technology in modern hiring processes, noting how mass applications can depersonalize interactions. She questions whether the ease of applying and rejecting through digital platforms has contributed to the normalization of ghosting. Despite technological advancements, Ron reinforces that it's the individual's responsibility to maintain human dignity and respect, regardless of the medium.
Ron and Deb emphasize the importance of keeping possibilities open and treating others with respect. Ghosting, whether in personal or professional settings, closes doors and limits future opportunities. Maintaining a stand for human dignity in every interaction ensures that individuals can look at themselves in the mirror with pride and continue to grow in their personal and professional lives.
Ghosting might be a modern phenomenon, but its impact is deeply human. By committing to respectful, honest communication, we can all contribute to a culture of integrity and open possibilities.
Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences with us by emailing Ron at ron@macklinconnection.com or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts. Thank you for tuning in!
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