From ghosting interviews to quitting without notice, a new iHire survey reveals just how far job seekers are willing to go—sometimes at the expense of their reputation. Based on responses from 1,645 U.S. workers across industries, the report exposes common but controversial job search and workplace behaviors, with significant differences emerging among generations.
Lori Cole, Certified Career Coach at iHire, underscores the long-term impact: “Behaviors like ghosting or stretching the truth can burn bridges and hurt your professional brand. Integrity still matters in the job market.”
Findings: Risky Behaviors in the Job Market
The survey reveals that many workers have engaged in behaviors that could harm their reputations or violate professional norms:
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21.6% have quit a job without giving notice
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16.5% quit a job within the first two weeks
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16.2% stretched the truth during a job interview
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14.0% attended a video call in pajamas or underwear
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10.9% ghosted an employer by skipping an interview
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9.4% held a second job in secret
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8.9% admitted to lying on their resume
These actions—whether intentional or due to lack of experience—signal rising concerns about workplace etiquette and professionalism.
Generational Trends: Who’s Taking More Risks?
The study breaks down behavior by generation, revealing how age groups differ in their approach to job hunting and work conduct:
Unprofessional Video Call Attire
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Millennials: 23.2%
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Gen Z: 16.7%
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Gen X: 11.0%
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Baby Boomers: 4.9%
Stretching the Truth in Job Interviews
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Gen Z: 20.8%
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Millennials: 15.5%
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Gen X: 15.6%
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Baby Boomers: 12.9%
Lying on a Resume
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Millennials: 12.1%
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Gen Z: 10.9%
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Gen X: 10.0%
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Baby Boomers: 2.7%
Quitting Without Notice
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Gen X & Millennials: 27.4% each
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Gen Z: 19.2%
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Baby Boomers: 12.2%
Ghosting an Interview
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Gen Z: 15.3%
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Millennials: 12.6%
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Gen X: 12.5%
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Baby Boomers: 3.4%
These numbers suggest that younger generations are more likely to engage in behaviors seen as unprofessional or high-risk—perhaps reflecting shifting attitudes toward employment norms and expectations.
Expert Insight: The Long-Term Risks of Short-Term Behavior
Lori Cole warns that job seekers and employees should consider the lasting consequences of their choices:
“Quitting without notice, lying, or ghosting may feel like a short-term win but can lead to long-term damage—especially in industries where word travels fast.”
She emphasizes the importance of professionalism, honesty, and clear communication. Even informal work-from-home environments require a standard of behavior that maintains trust and accountability.
Professionalism Still Counts
While workplace norms evolve with remote work and generational shifts, foundational values like integrity, transparency, and reliability remain vital. Employers are taking note of red flags during the hiring process, and job seekers should too.
Job seekers and professionals at any stage of their career would do well to follow Cole’s advice: “Focus on professionalism, integrity, and relationship-building to create long-term career success.”
