Don’t you just love the Web 2.0? We at SMStheJOB know all too well how easy it can be to while away a few hours on Social Media sites like Facebook andTwitter! It is so simple to connect with like minded people, to keep in touch with friends and family afar and to vent when things are not going to plan. Web 2.0 can be our best friend in our fast paced and diverse society. However this technology we are so in love with can also be our worst enemy.

Aaron Dodd, in his recent article “Social Media and Background Checks” highlights the fact that although some people think using Social Media to do background checks on candidates is unethical or an invasion of privacy, the overwhelming majority agree for the flipside – once it’s out there it is as good as public knowledge! If your page is public and you post information, it is likely to get read by people doing background checks on job applicants.

Online estimate states that as much as 56% of recruiters are using Social Media to do back ground checks on candidates – and an even more telling statistic: 35% of employers did NOT hire a candidate because of what was found online (http://www.recruitingblogs.com/profiles/blogs/job-seekers-ignore-so...).

Recently there have been cases of a lady who was apparently the front runner for a position, but all of a sudden the process halted, curiously enough right at the time she posted on her Facebook page that she was pregnant. Then there is the case of a guy who posted on his Facebook site that he lies in interviews – he was currently shortlisted and awaiting another interview (that never came).There was even a girl who admitted to binge drinking nights before work andstealing from a previous employer!

The very clever Iggy Pintado, in his book “Connection Generation” (this one is on Stephanie’s recommended reading list!) describes how every connection or interaction is a potential social or business opportunity and he recommends the use of Social Media to gain sustainable competitive advantage.

Do yourself a favour and have a read of the top 7 reasons why employers disqualified candidates after Social Media checks AND the top 7 reasons Employers hired a candidate after same: Job Seekers - Ignore Social Networking at your own peril!

If like us, you love the connections and interactions of social media, by all means Tweet or Facebook away – But be sure you know what you write has the power to impact greatly on your chances at landing your dream position. So be smart about what you are posting on line, right or wrong it is there for anyone to see – even your Mum!!

Please let us know if you have any questions, or would like us to blog on something specific related to Job Seeking!

Until next time,

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