Internet-based social media platforms and online databases do not operate in a private sphere. They store everything public, everywhere, and it is available to everyone – even employers. Complete internet anonymity does not exist. Many things about you and your personality beyond your resume might be accessible. These include your support of causes, interests, or ideas.
Anyone can type a name in a browser and find references to public information with just a few keystrokes. When personal details become accessible to employers through web and app activity, it is only natural for them to form opinions about the person they have searched and whether that individual aligns with the company culture and job based on the content returned.
If the information in a profile or database raises red flags or reflects political views and behaviors that by association could damage the organization, it could 100% impact the hiring decision. Law, finance, real estate, insurance, and education remain industries that take a conservative approach to social media and internet content. Hiring managers in visible professions like these often examine online accounts, particularly for public-facing positions or roles that involve privileged and confidential records.
Anything unrestricted in the public domain is “fair game” and viewable. This includes discussion forums and blogs you subscribe to, posts and comments you make, links you share, tags, mentions, likes, photos, videos, etc. Even “private” exchanges on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Pinterest, and other digital networks can be reposted by a recipient publicly and returned in a search.
Consider how you want to be perceived, if your digital presence detracts from that perception, and which matters more. You can expect others to make assumptions about your personal views, reputation, and character based on contributions you make available through all internet-based social media platforms and databases. Negative internet activity, past or present, can impact your ability to secure employment.
What candidates reveal in virtual communities and on other sites might sway employer perceptions in many areas, including:
- Speech and language
- Personality traits
- Ethical principles
- Activities outside of work
- Associations and friendships
- Relationship status
- Interests and hobbies
- Political affiliations
- Controversial opinions
- Illicit behaviors
- Religious beliefs
- Other intimate facets
Know your digital footprint! Every activity you engage in online leaves behind breadcrumbs. Search yourself regularly and monitor the results. Expunge any data from third-party aggregators like TruthFinder, Spokeo, Intelius, BeenVerified, PeopleFinders, PeekYou, and other sites like them. Visit each to opt-out and delete your profile. Familiarize yourself with the terms of service agreements on sites, which often include default authorizations that allow user information to be made public. It is all trackable.
Be smart about what you post, publish, and permit because it will follow you. Limit what you share. Consider the content you generate and ensure it can uphold scrutiny in a job interview or meeting. Keep your profile away from commentary on contentious issues. First impressions on likeability, trust, and credibility are formed quickly. If your actions, beliefs, and attitudes appear incompatible with those of an employer it might disqualify you as a candidate. Avoid profanity, party pics, and politics.
Clean up your online presence BEFORE starting a job search or collaborating with a recruiter. The electronic trail you create might lead to misinformed perceptions regarding your professional capabilities and conduct. Audit your platforms and feeds. Curate and remove embarrassing or potentially harmful details, deactivate dormant social networking accounts, and lock down all active, purely social profiles. Your greatest asset is your reputation. Protect it.
Securing a professional position with a desirable employer is a competitive endeavor. Do not give hiring managers any reason to choose another candidate. For more best practices visit: https://www.paralegal.edu/blog/social-media-keep-it-professional-or-keep-it-private
Contact Center for Advanced Legal Studies at paralegal.edu to learn more about our graduate resources, accredited paralegal programs, and class start dates. You may be able to transfer all Certificate courses from CALS, along with general study courses obtained at other institutions, into the Associate of Applied Science Degree or Bachelor of Arts – Law and Business programs.
|
Tami Riggs Director of Outreach and Career Services Tami has an extensive and varied professional background that spans criminal justice, paralegal education, and international school marketing and communication. Her career has been guided by a focus on developing strategic partnerships that facilitate school growth and student opportunity. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Degree in Criminal Justice from Texas State University. |
