When a company removes a job posting, there are several implications for job seekers and the hiring process. Understanding what happens behind the scenes can help manage expectations and decide next steps.
Why are job postings removed?
There are a few main reasons a company may remove a job posting:
- The position has been filled – This is the most common reason postings are removed. Once the right candidate has been hired, the posting is taken down.
- The hiring needs changed – Sometimes hiring needs evolve and a previously posted opening is no longer available. This could be due to budget changes, restructuring, or changes in project timelines.
- The posting received too many unqualified applicants – If a posting attracts too many underqualified applicants, a company may remove it and repost with more specific requirements.
- The company is no longer hiring – Hiring freezes or other budget cuts may force a company to remove open job postings.
- The posting expired – Some job postings are only open for a limited time and are automatically removed once the deadline passes.
What happens to applicant information and status?
When a job posting is removed, the status of applicants depends on a few factors:
- Application stage – Applicants who only submitted an initial application may receive no further communication from the company. Those who have progressed to interviews may receive rejection notices.
- Hiring timeline – If hiring is still active but the posting was removed, applicants may continue to be evaluated. However, if hiring is canceled, all applicants will likely get rejection notices.
- Applicant tracking systems – Large companies use ATS to manage applicants. Candidate profiles may remain on file after postings close unless applicants request removal.
- Personal contacts – Applicants who connected directly with recruiters or hiring managers may get more personalized updates on their status.
Here is a table summarizing what may happen at different application stages:
Stage | Posting Removed, Hiring Continues | Posting Removed, Hiring Stopped |
Applied only | May or may not receive further communication | Rejection notice likely |
Interviewed | May continue to be considered | Rejection notice likely |
Received offer | Offer likely still valid | Offer rescinded |
Will applicants be notified?
In most cases, applicants are not directly notified when a job posting is removed. The job portal may continue to list the posting without the apply button available.
However, most companies do not proactively reach out to all applicants about a closed posting. This is often due to limited recruitment resources.
Some signs applicants may notice include:
- The job posting disappears from company site or job board
- The apply button is removed or application links no longer work
- Receiving a rejection notice weeks or months after applying
- No further communication after a perceived next step (e.g. no interview invite after a phone screen)
Applicants who have directly contacted recruiters may receive an email or call with an update. But generally, applicants must check on statuses themselves.
Should applicants follow up?
If an application seems to stall after a posting disappears, it is reasonable to follow up. This shows continued interest and gives the company a chance to update your status.
Experts suggest waiting 2-4 weeks after last contact or a perceived next step. For example, follow up if you do not hear back after an interview invite.
The follow up email or call should:
– Reference the specific job applied for and date of application
– Mention interest is still strong in the role
– Politely ask for an update on current status
This provides closure and helps determine next steps. If the posting was removed due to hiring freezes, the door may still open later.
How should applicants proceed?
When a job posting disappears, applicants should:
- Search for other open roles at the company
- Expand the job search to other companies and roles
- Follow up if communication stalled after a perceived next step
- Ask for feedback if received a rejection notice
- Check if the posting reopens later
Having a broad, proactive approach prevents putting all hopes on one posting. Even if disappointed by a closed posting, persist and keep looking for right fit opportunities elsewhere.
Other tips include:
- Saving job descriptions and application materials to simplify reapplying
- Staying connected with recruiters on LinkedIn
- Joining company talent networks to get alerts for new openings
- Checking back for new roles occasionally if the company was a top choice
With persistence and a strategic search, the right opportunity will come through.
How can companies improve the process?
While hiring needs change, companies can improve how they handle closed postings:
- Notify applicants by email when positions close without a hire
- Keep applicant status updated in the ATS system
- Direct applicants to other potentially suitable openings
- If hired, notify applicants still under consideration
- Explain the situation and next steps if hiring is paused
Treating applicants with respect, even when rejecting them, maintains a positive employer brand. This enhances the candidate experience for future openings.
Here are some ways companies can optimize internal tracking:
Action | Owner | Timeline |
Enter applicants into ATS | Recruiters | Within 1 week of application |
Update statuses | Hiring manager | After interviews or changes |
Notify applicants of changes | Recruiters | Within 2 weeks of change |
Conclusion
Having a job posting removed unexpectedly can be disappointing for applicants. But understanding why companies close postings and what happens next enables better managing the situation. With persistence and a focus on alternatives, the job search can continue progressing. Companies also play a role by handling closed postings with transparency and communication. This improves relationships even when the news is not ideal. By navigating these situations thoughtfully, applicants and companies can maintain positive interactions.