Post can cost job

Be wise on social media

TEENAGERS who want a paid job need to watch what they post on social media, say to friends and behave in public, a book advises.

Evidence of drug use, intoxication and excessive partying will count against them in the search for work, according to The Two Worlds of Your Teenager, by Sonya Karras and Sacha Kaluri.

The teen experts also warn social media posts will be combed for evidence of racism, sexism, homophobia and any other inappropriate behaviour.

“Social media gives a much deeper insight into you and your personality than a CV,” Ms Karras said.

“There are software programs available that allow potential employers to see private social media profiles.

“Keep this in mind when you next post a drunk selfie”.

Ms Kaluri said as teenagers aged, they needed to think about the online presence they were creating and how this might affect the kind of industry they would like to work in.

“We’re not saying don’t go out and have fun, but there is no need to document all of it on social media,” she said.

The pair has spent 15 years motivating teenagers through school talks and their Teenage Expo event, and have a hit parenting show on Channel 31.

In their book they also say it is also important teenagers do not compromise the online profiles of their friends.

“Make sure your teen’s privacy setting are set correctly, so people can’t just tag them in a photo unless they approve it,” Ms Karras said.

The behaviour of friends can also have an impact.

“If your teenager has a group of friends that always acts inappropriately online and your teen is commenting or ‘liking’ their behaviour, it can appear that your teen shares those characteristics, too,” Ms Kaluri said.