Would YOU hire her?
According to an article on Computer World, about 22% of employers today are looking at social media networks to screen applicants, up from 11% just two years ago. An additional 9% say they plan to use this practice in the near future.
Almost a third of the employers surveyed said that the information they gathered on these networks led directly to them rejecting an application, citing things like references to drug and alcohol use, inappropriate photos or information, innacurate qualifications, and inappropriate screen names as areas of concern.
Honestly, I’m not surprised at the numbers here. I’m on tons of social media sites myself, and I see examples of inappropriate content all the time.
One person I follow on Twitter decided to share with the world her affection for certain, um… battery-operated bedroom accoutrements. I was flabbergasted. No. Just… NO. That goes so far beyond the realm of TMI.
I’ve seen nude (or nearly-nude) photos on people’s Facebook and MySpace profiles, pictures of people who were completely hammered or using illegal drugs, screen names that would make an adult film star blush. The list goes on and on, sadly.
To be perfectly frank, if you’re posting racy photos on your profile or talking about how much you love your bong, I really don’t have any sympathy for you. After all, social networks are in the public domain, searchable by anyone with internet access and a limited amount of Google proficiency. Anything you say on the interwebs can (and will!) be held against you, and employers certainly have every right to look on these sites to gain information on potential employees
The good news, for those of us who AREN’T posting idiotic stuff on our profiles, is that 24% of these web-savvy employers found content on social networks that actually helped convince them to hire a candidate. The internet is a great way to promote yourself and highlight your talents and accolades. A professional image and intelligent content can go a long way in impressing potential bosses.
Your web presence can make or break your career. My suggestion? Don’t post anything you wouldn’t want your mom to see.
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Good article, and thank you for pointing to the source. On a different line (OT, sorry), blogs WERE called blogs eight years ago, which you can check with Evan Williams or Wikipedia.
Gorgeoux-
Thanks for reading, and for pointing that out about the term “blog.” Looks like I was off by about two years! I changed the wording so it’s more accurate.
I’m glad you enjoyed the article, as well. I thought it was very interesting how many people are using it to screen applicants. That should make a lot of people VERY nervous!
-Christina
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