12. March 2008 | Show Originial
My aunt has a Myspace. My grandfather searches for old high school and military chums on Google. Some of my friends' pets even have their own social networking profiles. As more and more job seekers create their online profiles, how can you be sure that your one wild night or fraternity days don't bring your job search to a screeching hault? By following these five simple guidelines, you can be sure that your online personality doesn't betray your professional image.
1. Research. Odds are you aren't the only one in your circle that's using social networking. Many of your friends probably also have profiles, and unbeknownst to you may be leaking unwanted information about you to the online world. It's a good idea to "google" yourself on occasion and keep up with what's being said about you on the internet. While some employers might not go the extra mile to search for you on Myspace or Facebook, Googling you takes far less time and is an easy way to check for digital dirt.
2. Moderate. Most social networking sites utilize commenting systems, or testimonials. Sure, they're fun. But your comments could play a huge part in the way your prospective employer perceives your personality. To avoid having negative comments made about you, or even too revealing ones about what you did last night, try utilizing the approval option, or simply hiding your comments from public view. Phrases like, "We should call in sick more often!" will not help you in your job search.
3. Dress for the job you want. It's an important part of social networking to inclue a picture on your profile. And now with the mass use of digital cameras and cellphone cameras, it's easier than ever to have snapshots from just about every moment of your life. But again, the wrong image can leave a very stale taste in your prospective employer's mouth. Avoid posting too revealing pictures, or pictures from parties that may give the viewer the wrong impression.
4. Choose your friends wisely. Just as you don't want to post pictures of yourself in compromising situations or other unprofessional settings, being seemingly connected to an endless string of bikini-clad women isn't your most attractive asset to the employer.
5. Avoid negative blogging. Blogging can be an extremely fun and useful tool. However, you should avoid blogging about employers (past and present) and specific people. You never know who your prospective employer may know, and speaking negatively about someone, whether they're an integral part of your new job or not, could effectively deep-six your efforts.
By following these simple guidelines, you can safely use social networking to further your job search and career. Be sure to search for social networking sites that best fit your needs. For example, if you're in the medical profession, check out HealthCareerWeb.com and join MedCom, your ultimate resource for medical forums, jobs, and advice. What kind of success have you had with social networking as a job seeker?
1. Research. Odds are you aren't the only one in your circle that's using social networking. Many of your friends probably also have profiles, and unbeknownst to you may be leaking unwanted information about you to the online world. It's a good idea to "google" yourself on occasion and keep up with what's being said about you on the internet. While some employers might not go the extra mile to search for you on Myspace or Facebook, Googling you takes far less time and is an easy way to check for digital dirt.
2. Moderate. Most social networking sites utilize commenting systems, or testimonials. Sure, they're fun. But your comments could play a huge part in the way your prospective employer perceives your personality. To avoid having negative comments made about you, or even too revealing ones about what you did last night, try utilizing the approval option, or simply hiding your comments from public view. Phrases like, "We should call in sick more often!" will not help you in your job search.
3. Dress for the job you want. It's an important part of social networking to inclue a picture on your profile. And now with the mass use of digital cameras and cellphone cameras, it's easier than ever to have snapshots from just about every moment of your life. But again, the wrong image can leave a very stale taste in your prospective employer's mouth. Avoid posting too revealing pictures, or pictures from parties that may give the viewer the wrong impression.
4. Choose your friends wisely. Just as you don't want to post pictures of yourself in compromising situations or other unprofessional settings, being seemingly connected to an endless string of bikini-clad women isn't your most attractive asset to the employer.
5. Avoid negative blogging. Blogging can be an extremely fun and useful tool. However, you should avoid blogging about employers (past and present) and specific people. You never know who your prospective employer may know, and speaking negatively about someone, whether they're an integral part of your new job or not, could effectively deep-six your efforts.
By following these simple guidelines, you can safely use social networking to further your job search and career. Be sure to search for social networking sites that best fit your needs. For example, if you're in the medical profession, check out HealthCareerWeb.com and join MedCom, your ultimate resource for medical forums, jobs, and advice. What kind of success have you had with social networking as a job seeker?