A few weeks ago, we discussed some helpful tips for building your network on LinkedIn. As the leading professional social media network, we believe it is important to ensure your presence on LinkedIn maintains your values, standards, and acumen. However, it is not just LinkedIn that you should be paying attention to when you begin your job hunt. Many employers will seek out all your social media profiles after they’ve reviewed your resume. Therefore, you need to ensure you are making an excellent first impression across the internet. Today, let us chat about a few things you should do, or avoid doing, on social media.
According to research conducted by CareerBuilder, who interviewed HR professionals and hiring managers in several industries, 70% of respondents state that they use social media to research prospective job candidates, while 57% stated that they found content which resulted in them choosing not to hire a candidate.
Use a professional or appropriate profile picture
Chances are, if you have a professional headshot that you use for LinkedIn, it is a good idea to use that photo across your social media platforms. If you choose not to, ensure the photo you do use highlights you in a way that will not be offensive, or off-putting to potential hiring managers. A picture is worth a thousand words, so make sure the photo you use speaks positively about you.
Avoid discriminatory comments and posts
While we strongly believe this should be common practice, and you should do your best to avoid confrontation or conflict online, this especially rings true if you are in search of a career change. While you are entitled to your opinion, if you choose to use hateful language, and engage in spreading intolerance and anger, employers have the right not to hire you.
If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all
Social media is a great way to bring attention to social issues and stand up for what you believe in. However, it is never a good idea to speak negatively about your previous employer or coworkers on an online platform. While you do not have to love every person you work with, employers are looking for individuals who can get along and work amicably with others. Hanging your dirty laundry out on Facebook is not professional.
You also want to ensure you are not exposing private or confidential company information, as this demonstrates that you are not trustworthy. If you are speaking poorly of previous employers, what might you say about your new one?
We understand that social media is a way to bring people together and allows you the space to express yourself. However, in doing so, always ask yourself if what you are posting could result in negative consequences.
If you have questions regarding your social media presence, in particular LinkedIn, we are here to help. Contact our team today and make sure you are making the best impression online.