Startup founder alleges candidate ghosted after joining, took company laptop for Rs 25,000 higher offer, sparks debate

A startup founder's social media post alleging that a newly hired employee left immediately after joining for a salary increase of Rs 25,000 has triggered widespread discussion online, with users debating professional ethics, hiring practices and the current job market.

According to the founder, the candidate completed a three-month notice period before requesting a last-minute salary hike of Rs 50,000 three days before joining. The company agreed to the increase to avoid a last-minute withdrawal.

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Founder claims employee stopped responding after onboarding

The founder alleged that the candidate completed the onboarding process, collected the company-issued laptop and requested to work from home due to personal reasons. The following day, the employee allegedly stopped responding to calls, emails and instant messages.

After the company managed to establish contact, the candidate reportedly cited personal reasons for not continuing with the role and asked the company to collect its laptop. The founder claimed legal action was threatened to recover the device, following which it was returned.

The founder further alleged that the candidate had joined another organisation that offered Rs 25,000 more than the revised salary package.

Expressing frustration, the founder wrote that after waiting three months for the candidate to complete the notice period, the company had to restart the hiring process. The post also stated that the founder hoped artificial intelligence would eventually replace such candidates.

Users call out ghosting, not job switch

The post drew mixed reactions from social media users. Several said the issue was not that the candidate accepted a better-paying opportunity but that the company was allegedly left without proper communication.

One user said candidates have every right to reject an offer or leave for a better opportunity, but should communicate honestly instead of disappearing without explanation.

Another user remarked that such incidents are becoming increasingly common and are unprofessional, while adding that companies have also been known to revoke offers, making the problem a two-sided issue.

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Debate over salary difference and hiring practices

Some users objected to the founder's description of the Rs 25,000 salary difference, arguing that the amount could be significant depending on an individual's financial circumstances.

One commenter said referring to it as "just" Rs 25,000 overlooked the fact that the amount could be substantial for someone else.

Another user noted that while they personally would not accept another offer after making a company wait for three months, organisations also cancel offers due to restructuring, leaving candidates in difficult situations.

Some users suggested creating a platform similar to Glassdoor where employers could document candidate behaviour to help companies make informed hiring decisions.

Another commenter said startups generally hire only for immediate business needs rather than overstaffing, adding that similar situations have occurred multiple times and that companies eventually have to move on.

Another user concluded that there is nothing wrong with choosing the highest-paying offer, provided the process is handled ethically and professionally, warning that backing out on the day of joining can harm a candidate's long-term reputation.

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