Social media, with sites like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+, is a today a resource for employers who want to know job seekers better than it is possible through a resume, cover letter, or interview. Hiring managers and recruiters are using social media in all phases of the selection process. Some even base their hiring on what they find out.
You may not get the job because of provocative or inappropriate photos and information posted on your profile. You may have on it comments or jokes related to race, gender and religion which will be damaging for you even if they are not posted by you. Employers may find see evidence of: drinking and/or drug use, poor communication skills, gossips about previous employers or lies about qualifications. The information you provide online about your qualifications, job background and accomplishments should be consistent on all the sites you post, adapting the information to that specific site.
So, it you want to have presence on Social Media, maake sure any profiles you write are free of typos, the information is coherent and applicable to the job you are trying to obtain or your industry if you are an entrepreneur, and your photos present you in a favorable light. Take as model the profiles of others in the same field as you who present an impeccable image.
Social Media offers valuable insight into the life of employees, business partners and competition too. So it is very important in this information era to pay special attention on the image you present in the social media. Keep in mind that information, photos, comments can be taken out of context and interpreted in damaging ways for you.
But don’t be discouraged from having a Social Media presence. There are enough employers who are interested in discovering your personality from your profiles. The information they find could possibly give you an advantage if the employer get a positive feeling about you. Some may be impressed if you convey a professional image and show that you are creative, well-rounded and have great communication skills. They may be impressed by the great references posted by others. So, put your relations to work and get support for your qualifications and skills. Build strong social networks and create online profiles representing your skills and experience as best as possible.
