Canadian Employers Urged to Prioritize “Preboarding” to Reduce Job Ghosting

Prioritizing “preboarding” could be the difference between a new hire showing up for their first day of work or not, according to new research from Click Boarding.

Nearly half of candidates (45%) who ghosted their employer did so during the preboarding stage — with disengagement from the workplace being noted as a likely cause.

“[Poor engagement during preboarding] sets a precedent for the rest of the employment as this is the only impression a candidate has about your company and what it’s like to work there,” Adam Wachtel, chief technology officer at Click Boarding, said in response to the findings.

“The cost of turnover is very much quantifiable and there is a correlation between high turnover and a disjointed onboarding process. This can be felt even more in industries such as healthcare or retail, which are so revenue-driven.”

• SEE ALSO: Canadian Employers Reportedly Struggling to Fill Open Roles in 2026

How can Canadian Employers Improve Preboarding?

Click Boarding recommends a 3-phase approach to improve engagement ahead of a candidate’s first day of work:

• First Phase: Celebrate the individual’s decision to accept the job offer and reassure them of their value to the company. Regular correspondence/check-ins should begin from this point.
• Second Phase: Help the individual complete onboarding tasks and understand the expectations of their role as they approach their start date.
• Third Phase: Clearly outline what the first week of work will be like and provide opportunities for the individual to connect with members of the team.

Disclaimer: The materials provided in this article are for general informational purposes only and DO NOT constitute legal advice. For advice specific to your situation, please consult a legal representative at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP.