Resumes, references and interview attire are all vetted during a job hunt. But how do all those politically incorrect statements or wacky selfies on your social media profile pass muster?
It isn’t just your friends who are following you online today. Companies and recruiters routinely check search engine results to learn more about potential employees. Your online reputation – which would include posts by you, posts by others but linked to you directly/ indirectly or even posts by others pretending to be you – can determine whether you are the right fit for an organization. Dodgy content and social media red flags can ruin your chances of getting a job.
Here’s how can you maintain a career-friendly online reputation:
First off, run a search with your name
Unless you’re looking at a career in fashion or fine arts, your Instagram or Pintrest profile shouldn’t be the only thing a potential employer finds while conducting an Internet search of your name. Experts state at least one of the top five search results should relate to your professional interests. So ensure you update your work profile on your Facebook and Twitter page.
To make this tracking exercise simpler, you can customize Google search settings so that you receive an email alert every time a search listing with your name is added. That way, you don’t have to conduct periodic searches to keep track of your reputation.
Monitor your digital footprints
Be watchful of what you post and discuss about your work or current employer online. If you want to say anything negative about the latter, convey it through appropriate channels such as the company’s Human Resources department. Commenting on social media or other informal platforms only makes you appear unprofessional. Poorly written, inappropriate or defamatory posts or comments will also encourage an employer to pass you over. If you’re tagged in another person’s photo, post or comment that may harm your professional reputation, request them to delete the tag.
Remember, deleting doesn’t always help — posts and pictures erased linger in Internet search records and can be retrieved with a little maneuvering. So think twice before you post anything that is potentially embarrassing or inappropriate.
Showcase your strengths
It’s best to separate the personal from the professional online by not linking the email address on your resume to any social media account. If you can’t do that, use these social platforms to promote your accomplishments. Whether it’s volunteering with a social organization or achieving a personal milestone while trekking, flaunt any activity that complements your credentials as a professional.
Check your privacy settings
Your photos and posts on social media may be scrutinized before you are hired. So enable privacy settings on content you only want to share with friends and family.
