Social media trail a job prospects hazard

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 employment, according to The Two Worlds of Your Teenager, by Sonya Karras and Sacha Kaluri.

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

Even banter between friends can come back to bite.

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

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

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

Ms Kaluri said that 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 the past 15 years motivating teenagers through school talks and a hit parenting show on C31.

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