While we spend so much time on social media, one of the last things on our minds is how it affects our job search. What you share on social media can influence how potential employers perceive you. With social media screening becoming an increasingly common part of the hiring process, it’s crucial to understand how your online activity could affect your chances of landing the job. Learn what social media screening is, why employers use it, and which platforms they check, along with practical strategies below.
What is Social Media Screening?
Social media screening is when employers review a candidate’s social media profiles as part of the hiring process. This screening can occur at any stage of recruitment—from the initial application review to just before making a job offer.
Why Do Employers Do Social Media Screening?
Employers conduct social media screening for several reasons:
Assessing Compatibility
Companies want to ensure that new hires will complement and add to their existing teams. Social media can provide clues about a candidate’s interests, beliefs, and how they might interact with colleagues.
Identifying Red Flags
Employers are vigilant about avoiding individuals who could bring negative publicity or legal issues. Social media screening helps identify any problematic behavior, such as hate speech, bullying, or evidence of drug use.
Verifying Professionalism
Employers will look for signs of professionalism on social media platforms. Posts, photos, and interactions that reflect maturity, responsibility, and respect can positively influence a hiring decision, while content that suggests recklessness or immaturity might be a red flag.
Understanding Personal Brand
Your social media presence contributes to your professional brand. Employers want to see that candidates are mindful of how they present themselves online and that this aligns with the company’s image and standards.
Which Social Media Platforms Do Employers Screen?
ALL! An employer will review any social media account associated with your name. They may see your LinkedIn profile first, but rest assured that every other platform will be seen at one point or another.
6 Strategies to Pass Social Media Screening
Consider the following strategies to ensure your social media enhances rather than detracts from your chances of landing the job:
1. Google Yourself Often
It is very likely an employer will Google your name when they start screening. Regularly search your name on Google to see what potential employers might find. Check both web and image results. This practice will help you identify any public information that could negatively impact your job prospects. If you find anything concerning, take steps to remove or address it, whether that means adjusting your privacy settings, deleting old content, or requesting removal from third-party sites.
2. Check Your Privacy Settings
Privacy settings are your defense in controlling what potential employers can see on your social media profiles. Review and update these settings regularly to ensure only the content you want to be public is accessible. For example, on Facebook, you can limit who can see your posts, photos, and personal information. On Instagram, you might choose to make your profile private. However, remember that privacy settings are not the perfect solution.
3. Mind Your Language
The way you speak on social media can reflect your professionalism and temperament. Avoid using inappropriate language, engaging in heated arguments, or posting offensive jokes. Employers value candidates who demonstrate respect, maturity, and self-control in their interactions. Before posting, consider the impact it can make on you and others.
4. Remove Inappropriate Content
Go through your social media history and delete any posts, photos, or comments that could be viewed as unprofessional or offensive. This includes anything that might be interpreted as discriminatory or overly negative. If you wouldn’t want your boss or a potential employer to see it, it’s best to remove it. This clean-up helps protect your professional image and gives you peace of mind during the job search.
5. Review Your Tagged Posts
Sometimes, you might be tagged in posts or photos that perhaps an employer shouldn’t see. Regularly review your tagged posts stored on a separate page from your profile. Untag yourself from anything that could harm your professional image. Additionally, consider changing your settings to approve any future tags before they appear on your profile.
6. Promote Your Accomplishments
While cleaning up your social media is important, don’t forget to highlight the positives. Share magazine interviews, milestones, new certifications, or other career-related achievements. Social media is the perfect place to celebrate with your network and build your reputation as a thought leader.
By understanding what employers look for and implementing strategies like these to present your best self online, you can ensure that your social media profiles support your career goals and help you land your dream job.
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