Do you enjoy the sense of anonymity while posting on the internet—especially on social networking platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, BlogSpot, or the once-popular Orkut and MySpace? Do your profiles feature political opinions, party photos, or college pranks? If so, it’s time to reconsider your online image—especially if you’re job hunting.
A growing trend among recent graduates is the closure or cleanup of social media profiles before stepping into the job market. The reason? Big Brother is watching. And in this case, Big Brother is your potential employer.
Hiring professionals and recruiters are increasingly using search engines and social networking platforms to screen job applicants. This includes having interns or assistants check out an applicant’s social profile to gauge personality, professionalism, and cultural fit.
This trend may seem invasive, but it’s not just paranoia. There’s both anecdotal and documented evidence of employers using social media as a modern-day reference check. As social platforms become more widespread and integrated into daily life, they also become a valuable tool for recruiters.
Recognizing this shift, business school professors and career advisors are now recommending students maintain a professional online presence, not only on social networks but also in emails, personal websites, and blogs. Even password-protected profiles aren’t entirely private—recruiters who are part of your network may still have access to your posts and photos.
A survey conducted by AfterCollege.com highlighted the issue:
- 70% of students admitted they continued posting as usual, even though employers might be watching.
- Roughly 20% of employers said they do investigate applicants through social media.
- Around 6% of employers have chosen not to hire a candidate based on what they saw online.
- Another 26% of employers declined to comment on whether they make decisions based on online profiles.
As Roberto Angulo of AfterCollege.com points out:
“Students should be more concerned than they are.”
Key Takeaway:
Your digital footprint matters. What you share online could be the deciding factor between getting the job or being passed over. Now more than ever, managing your online reputation is essential. Make sure your profiles reflect the professional image you want future employers to see.