How Many Employers Check Social Media Before Hiring?

It's become a standard and sometimes a necessary procedure for employers and headhunters to Google potential employees and review their social media accounts. The goal? To ensure there's no offensive content and to check if there is a cultural match. This practice underscores the importance of managing your online presence, especially if you're aiming for management or customer-facing roles.

Expanding Your Digital Footprint

Today, the hiring process extends far beyond just a resume and interview. Who you are is not just in the written application; it's everywhere else. From the type of content you post on social media to the network you belong to, all aspects of your online presence can influence the decision of whether you get hired.

The Pre-Hiring Process in Detail

According to a CareerBuilder survey, 70% of employers check social media before making a hiring decision. This statistic highlights the evolving nature of pre-hiring practices and the increasing importance of digital presence.

Candidates can optimize their chances of getting hired by carefully evaluating and managing their digital footprints. This includes:

Removing offensive comments, pictures, and likes that could reflect poorly on you. Being mindful of the content you share, ensuring it aligns with the company culture. Creating and maintaining a professional social media profile, complete with a relevant cover photo and a professional bio. Networking strategically on professional platforms like LinkedIn.

Examples of Social Media Checks

What kind of social media platforms are employers likely to check? The answer varies, but here are some common ones:

Facebook: Often considered the most personal of the platforms, it can reveal personal interests and behaviors that might be relevant to the job. Twitter: Though primarily a news and information platform, your tweets can display your personality and interests. Instagram: A visual platform that might show your style, hobbies, and activities. LinkedIn: A professional network where your workplace history and recommendations can be checked.

Preparing for the Digital Assessment

Before applying for a job, consider the following steps to ensure you're ready for a potential social media check:

Review your profiles: Check all your social media accounts to ensure they are professional and free of any inappropriate content. Adjust privacy settings: Make sure your personal information is not publicly accessible without your permission. Delete or remove inappropriate content: If you have posts that could negatively impact your job application, consider deleting them or replacing them with more positive content. Limit your digital footprint: Be cautious of the online activities you engage in that might reflect poorly on you.

Every stage in the hiring process is crucial, and managing your digital footprint is one of the most overlooked yet impactful aspects.

Conclusion

The process of hiring has evolved significantly, with social media checks becoming a significant part of the evaluation. By understanding and managing your digital footprint, you can increase your chances of securing the job you desire. Remember, in the digital age, your online presence is just as important as your resume and interview performance.