Social media: Friend or foe?
Job searchers have a love-hate relationship with social media. On one hand, promoting yourself through sites such as LinkedIn and Facebook can provide big benefits if your content is professional. However, recruiters will quickly turn down your application if your profiles showcase unethical behavior.
Before applying for jobs, analyze your online presence to ensure that your accounts show your commitment to a career.
HOW EMPLOYERS USE SOCIAL MEDIA
A 2017 study by the group Career Builder showed that 70 percent of employers are reviewing candidates’ social-media profiles. Here are the statistics the report revealed about why applicants were turned down: 38 percent of candidates posted information on drinking or drug usage; 39 percent of applicants posted provocative or inappropriate pictures, videos or information; and 23 percent revealed confidential information about a previous employer. On the other hand, social media can be helpful when advertising yourself to potential employers. These are the positive results from the report showing the types of content that landed people the job: 38 percent revealed background information that supported professional qualifications; 37 percent showcased great communication skills; and 36 percent were hired because of their professional image.
CLEAN UP YOUR DIGITAL IMAGE
Before you can create a more professional online presence, it’s important to analyze the state of your profiles. Try a general inquiry of your name and location on a search engine, and delete outdated accounts and inappropriate posts you made or are connected to. You want to paint your digital image as a wholesome, honest and professional portrait.
BE ACTIVE
Showing you are relevant and active on socialmedia accounts looks great to employers, especially if you are regularly posting information regarding the industry you are trying to break into. Show off your creative side and knowledge about topics you are an expert in. You may also benefit when delivering comments or posts that show your personality and a few of your interests. Hiring managers can learn a lot through this content and confirm that you are a great fit for the role and their company.