Social Media & Professionalism

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Professionalism in the digital age is becoming increasingly more important as employers are looking at the social media profiles of prospective hires.

Use Privacy Settings

Sites like Instagram and Twitter allow users to make their profiles completely private from those who aren’t following them, while Facebook allows members to customize the amount of information seen by followers and non-followers. Use these settings to your advantage. Your potential employer doesn’t want to see that questionable photo from Halloween 5 years ago.

Think Twice Before Posting

Even better, the best rule of thumb is to not even post the questionable photo. This is especially important as you get closer to graduation. And make sure to untag any that others may have shared. Even if you are of legal drinking age, a picture including alcohol isn’t going to make the best impression. Save them to your computer but take them off your page.

Deleted Posts Aren’t Always Gone

Sites like Wayback Machine allow employers to look at archived content and this includes social media posts. Post something and take it down a day later? It could still be available for employers to view. Just another reason to take extra caution when posting online.

Careful with Retweets

Resharing or retweeting controversial information could potentially show employers that you are endorsing a viewpoint or message. Even if it’s someone else’s picture or words, you are attaching your name to the message. Remember that hiring committees look at social media behavior and transfer it to a workplace setting.

Engagement is Key

Make sure you’re engaged online. As the working world becomes increasingly more digital, employers are looking to hire individuals who are well versed in navigating the digital landscape. Not having a social media presence can hurt you in the job market, especially if you’re planning on entering an industry where social media is heavily utilized (think communications, marketing, business).