Social Media and the Job Interview Process

One of the many questions that we receive from job candidates is what should they do about their Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter and Instagram accounts.  A typical concern is that some posting will negatively impact his or her chances to get a new job.  When people apply to college or their first job, they change their Facebook name to some derivation of their real name so a school or the first employer will be unable to track the applicant.  Once you are in the workforce that option is not viable.

One candidate asked me whether she should just cancel all of her online postings.  I highlighted to her that absence of any online social media would be worse than any potential inappropriate material.  Remember that companies are looking to see whether a candidate would fit into their corporate culture.  Absence a media presence may indicate that the candidate has a lack of social skills.  If that is the case, the candidate may not be offered a job that she is qualified for.

You may want to review and delete postings that portray you in a negative light.  But remember you need to live your life.