I’m sure you’ve heard all about keeping your Facebook account clean of any regrettable photos and derogatory comments. If you haven’t, then perhaps it’s time to clean off some of the social media dirt that is hindering your job search. Over 90 percent of employers are using social networking sites to screen job candidates, according to a Reppler study. What you say and do on social media is accessible to employers (and I’ve heard employers admit to finding ways around privacy settings to screen candidates).
Sixty-nine percent of employers said they have rejected candidates because of what they saw about them on a social networking site. The primary reasons were because these candidates:
- Posted inappropriate photos
- Posted inappropriate comments
- Demonstrated poor communication skills
- Posted negative comments about previous employers
- Made discriminatory comments
But your social network profiles don’t have to be a hindrance. You can also use social media to leverage your job search. Sixty-eight percent of employers said they have hired candidates because of what they saw about them on a social networking site. These employers said they hired candidates who:
- Gave a positive impression of their personality and organizational fit
- Had a profile that showed they were creative
- Showed solid communication skills
- Had a profile that showed they were well-rounded.
The lesson in all this is: when it comes to social media, you should keep it clean and keep it positive. If you haven’t had any luck in your job search, try going back through your social network accounts and clear out any clutter that might be holding you back. And remember; when in doubt throw it out.
About Justin Ihara
