In today’s digital age, social media plays a significant role in the hiring process. With a 500% increase in employers using social media to screen candidates over the last decade, it’s crucial to manage your online presence. Here’s how to ensure your social media profiles help, rather than hinder, your career.
Understand What Employers Are Looking For
Employers and recruiters aren’t just looking for gossip. They’re searching for:
- Background information to ensure it matches with the job specification
- Details about your personality and whether it’s a good fit with company culture
- Suggestions that you’re a well-rounded person with a wide range of interests
- Evidence of good communication skills
Think Before You Post
This doesn’t mean you have to treat your social media accounts as extensions of your CV, but it does mean you will have to be mindful of what you publish and always consider the impact of your posts. Avoid sharing:
- Provocative or inappropriate content.
- Offensive or discriminatory remarks.
- Criticisms of previous employers or colleagues.
- Posts with poor grammar and spelling.
Manage Your Online Reputation
As well as protecting yourself from possible misjudgement by being attentive of what you share, it’s also a good idea to speak to your friends and family about how they interact with you online. You can’t expect everyone you know to appreciate the importance of your online reputation unless you tell them. Change your privacy settings so that you can approve any content associated with you, such as tagged photos and videos.
Every now and again Google yourself to see through your prospective employers’ eyes. If you find something you wouldn’t want them to see locate the source of the material, approach the person who posted it and ask them to delete it. If you can’t find the source or the person you’ve contacted refuses to take down the content, you can contact Google or ask the administrators of the specific website you’re visiting to do it.
Don’t Delete Your Social Media
While it might be tempting to remove your social media presence entirely, this can be detrimental as you could be losing out on a lot of opportunities and valuable resources. Additionally, employers appreciate seeing your online activity as it helps them get to know you better. Instead, use social media to:
- Join industry groups
- Showcase your expertise and commitment to your field
Use Social Media Wisely
Remember, social media is a tool that can boost your career if used wisely. It’s not the only factor in your job search, but it can provide valuable opportunities and resources.
Conclusion
By managing your social media presence thoughtfully, you can ensure it supports your career goals. Use common sense, stay professional, and let your online profiles reflect the best version of you.
Remember that although it can be useful, social media isn’t the be all and end all when it comes to your career. It’s a handy tool that can support your career goals, but you should also look for opportunities outside of it. There is a lot of scaremongering and horror stories on the subject but use common sense, stay professional, and let your online profiles reflect the best version of you.
Ready to take the next steps in your career? Explore our career advice section for expert tips and guidance or get in contact with one of our consultants here.
