Digital Ghosting, Power Plays, and Anxiety: The Dark Side of Remote Work No One Talks About

It’s a scenario all too familiar: You send a thoughtful email or Slack message, then… nothing. No reply. Hours pass, maybe days. Your mind races: Did I say something wrong? Are they upset? Or are they just busy? Welcome to the era of digital ghosting—a silent epidemic in the remote workplace.



Erica Dhawan’s Digital Body Language reveals that silence online is rarely neutral. Power dynamics play a huge role: We tend to reply faster to bosses, slower to peers, and sometimes not at all to subordinates. But ghosting isn’t always intentional. With overflowing inboxes and constant notifications, messages get lost. Still, for the sender, the emotional impact is real—anxiety, self-doubt, and even resentment can fester.

Research shows that ambiguity in digital messages is a top cause of workplace stress. Without the cues of tone and body language, we fill in the blanks with our own fears. A short reply from a trusted colleague is no big deal; from someone we barely know, it can feel like a snub.

So how do you cope? Dhawan suggests being impeccable with your words: clarify expectations, acknowledge messages (even if you can’t reply fully), and, when in doubt, switch channels. A quick call can clear up days of anxiety. Leaders can help by modeling transparency, checking in regularly, and building a culture where it’s safe to ask for clarification.

Remember, everyone is fighting their own digital battles. By being proactive, clear, and empathetic, you can turn the dark side of remote work into an opportunity for connection and growth.

Sources: Erica Dhawan, Digital Body Language; NSLS review; 5 Minute Book Summary. 1 3