Media Searches: Why Companies Look at Your Social Media before Hiring
Social media has put our lives on display for everyone to see…friends, family, even potential managers. So before you apply for that job, you may want to do a quick audit of your social media presence and be sure you’re presenting your best self to your potential new boss.
First impressions matter and unfortunately these days, those impressions are coming from your social media accounts.
Here’s how to use social media searches for your benefit, so you can put your best face forward.
Why Companies Look at Your Social Media Accounts
Why are companies looking at your social media accounts in the first place? Simply put, they want to get a look at the real you. We all want to leave a great impression at an interview, and this means putting on an act to some degree.
But is it legal for employers to check your social media and should employers use social media to screen job applicants?
Yes, employers can look at your social profiles, in fact, 70 percent of employers do admit to checking out potential employees’ social media accounts.
They do this to look for info that aligns with job qualification, to look for any professional presence you may have and to see what people are saying about you.
How to Make a Great (Social) Impression
Now that you know employers are likely to scope out your social media accounts, here are some steps you can take to make a great first impression.
When you’re in the middle of a job hunt, clean up your social media presence and make sure you stand out in a good way. Highlight any traits and skills that align with the job you’re trying to get.
For example, if you’re applying for a content marketing position, showcase your love for writing and marketing. Share content related to marketing activities and spark a conversation around it with your followers.
Don’t share anything you’re not genuinely interested in. Instead, let potential employers see why your personality aligns with the position you’re applying for.
You’ll also want to make sure your profile picture is as professional or toned down as possible.
What you don’t want to do is delete your social media profiles altogether. This sends a red flag that you’re hiding something.
Acing Social Media Searches
The bottom line is that, yes, companies are using social media searches to determine which candidates they want to bring in for interviews. It could even be the deciding factor if a business is torn between two great candidates.
Make sure your social media accounts are showcasing the side of you that you want your next employer to see.
If you’re looking for your next job, give us a call and find out how we can help you ace your next interview!
