Recent research has shown that close to 40 percent of employers browse candidates’ social media profiles as part of their hiring process. And 70 percent of recruiters surveyed by Microsoft said they had rejected job applicants based on information gleaned from online searching.
Clearly, you need to clean up or lock down any content that may be perceived as questionable, illicit or inappropriate by potential employers. When building your professional future, your social media presentation is comparable to the in-person impression you make in an interview or other networking opportunity.
Eliminate Damaging Content
Treat any potential posts, tweets, comments, images, photos or other social content – by or about yourself – as if they could go viral at any moment. Because they could. And even if they don’t, they will likely be read by recruiters and companies.
- Never complain about a position you currently have or are seeking. Employers want to know that you’re interested in working for them and appreciate what they stand for. An example that has become widely known is the case of a Cisco employee who tweeted about weighing her “fatty paycheck” against her hatred of her job.
- Keep illicit activities off line. It’s a perception issue. Employers want candidates and employees who exude professionalism, not a party persona. For instance, a Georgia teacher in 2009 was given the ultimatum to be suspended or resign as the result of a Facebook photo of her drinking beer while on a European vacation.
Never Ask for a Job Outright
Keep your name in front of people so you’re poised to build your career, but never directly ask for a job online.
- Make connections with the right people and let them see you as professional, intelligent and qualified. Update your statuses frequently, provide contents to groups, and establish yourself as a valuable resource.
Profile Shortfalls
Be sure that your online profiles are complete, accurate, honest and up to date. Never include information that contradicts your resume.
- It’s about more than just “passing the social media test” once you’ve been found. It’s about being found in the first place. If you have a common name, look for a way to differentiate yourself. For example, use “CPA” or another professional designation. Register a unique URL so employers will find you and not someone else with the same name.
- Use a professional head shot photo. Like all content, keep it up to date. It’s worth the investment.
Working with a specialized recruiter can be invaluable as you build your online presence and other tools and strategies for your job search. To learn more, read our related posts or contact the team at Premium Staffing today.