Social Networking

Internet

The internet is a powerful tool when it comes to searching for a job. A job seeker, often uses the internet to look for available positions, research companies that are hiring, communicate and network, and apply for jobs.

Employers also use the power of the internet when looking for candidates for positions available within their company. They advertise the position, accept inquiries about the job, and receive applications from interested job seekers.

Many employers also go one step further; they use the internet to research potential candidates. Have a Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, LinkedIn, or other social networking account? If so, an employer may search your postings to see if you would be a good fit for their company.

Social Networking

While social networking sites like Facebook and MySpace can be a great way to network and stay connected with family and friends, it is important to assume that a potential employer will see any messages and pictures you post.

Employers will likely lose interest in a candidate who posts inappropriate content anywhere on the internet, including social networking sites. What is inappropriate content?

In recent news, derogatory comments, revealing or risqué photos, foul language, pictures of wild partying, and lewd jokes posted on the internet have been enough to keep job applicants from getting hired.

Prevention

Prevention is key. The bottom line is that nothing should be posted that you wouldn't want a prospective employer to see.

For more protection, consider setting accounts to "private" and selecting the "block comments" feature. This will prevent unwanted posts from others to be displayed on your profile. Keep in mind, once something is on the internet, it's there to stay.

It's also a good idea to routinely check your profile, review comments, ensure all pictures are appropriate in nature, and use a search engine to look for online records of yourself. These methods will show you what potential employers might see.

Social Networking After You Get the Job

You managed your social networking appropriately, had a killer resume, a great interview, and landed your dream job.

You've been at the job for several months and things are going really well. You fit in with your coworkers, the work is challenging and rewarding, your boss even says you're up for a raise. You go home one night, fire up your laptop, and post on Facebook that "I am really loving my job these days. I think I'll call in sick tomorrow so I can go out to celebrate this gig." Your friends start replying to the post, congratulating you and telling you how awesome it is.

One problem. Someone from your work was also on Facebook and your conversation popped up on her screen because you have a mutual friend. Your coworker just happens to be one of the managers from the human resources department.

When you call in sick the next day, she knows the true story. While you're out celebrating your cool job on a paid sick day, she's at the office working on your disciplinary paperwork.

You can bet you're no longer up for a raise and you've probably fallen out of favor with your boss… let's just hope you don't get fired.

The moral of the story: Don't get too comfy even after you land a job. The employer is still worried about the image of the company, its policies, and its relationship with you. Don't let social networking posts (written or pictorial) interfere with your job.