With social media being such a large and important part of our everyday lives, it’s easy to forget how public it truly is.
Today potential applicants not only have their resumes looked over, but also their various social media profiles. More and more frequently, companies and corporations scroll through Facebook or Twitter to review a potential employee’s personality and private life.
Shaniece Mitchell, a sophomore dental hygiene major, said social networking could be a disadvantage to a possible career.
“I think Facebook hinders your opportunities because [of] what you put on there and what others put on there without thinking. Employers have the power to look back at years worth of activity,” Mitchell said.
But she doesn’t think you should completely disregard them.
“You shouldn’t delete your Facebook just because you are scared of what image it presents.
Clean it up because it’s the best way to look at your personality and background,” Mitchell said.
Social media and what is shown on there can affect your future negatively, but it is still a great way to connect with friends and family. When used in the right way, social media can catapult us into opportunities we never imagined.
“It can help if you are involved in an organization and they have a Facebook page and you’re really involved, that can portray you in a very positive light,” Mitchell said.
When using a social media sight remember to be smart about what you post.
Try not to have hundreds of pictures filled with red cups. Be mindful if you are very active on a social media sight, it can also harm your chances of being hired. Potential employers may assume you care more about a tweet than a job.
One in 10 young adults have lost a potential job offer because of social media outlets according to marketing analyst firm On Device Research.
“Your social media portrays your social image, especially Facebook,” said senior Emily Barnes, a history major.
“You should always be careful of what you post, as it may reflect badly on your personality. Keep parts of your life private and always be watchful of tagged photos.”
There are plenty of ways to protect your page and your image; you just have to take the time to do them.
Privacy settings are always available, and if you have to post those party pictures, make sure you, or a select group of friends can only see them.
Filter what people post about you, always check out tagged photos and be mindful of what you let stand.
If someone is taking pictures at a party, try to make sure your hands are free of anything that could turn off a potential employer, or at least hidden.
Make an effort to keep your social media, and subsequently your image, nice and presentable and you won’t have to be the sob who lost a job because of Facebook.
Don’t forget that social media is a great way to get jobs. Websites like LinkedIn was created for the sole purpose of job opportunities.
Remember once you snag your dream job, don’t ruin it by working harder on the perfect Facebook status instead of finishing that spreadsheet.
