With the ever growing popularity of social networking sites, employers are using them as a resource to learn more about job candidates. For that, it is crucial that you are portraying a positive online image. You don’t want your virtual representation to obstruct your chances for that next opportunity, so here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Keep Your Profile Updated: Having the most up-to-date information on your profile page is important because it shows an initiative for your online persona and a concern for the information being shared with the virtual world.
2. Use Your Privacy Settings: Make sure you’re only showing certain profile areas to certain people. Many social networking sites allow you to pick and choose who can view what on your page/profile, so take advantage of it!
3. Be Respectful: Airing your dirty laundry with the entire virtual world is ill-mannered. This means don’t harass, argue, apologize, instigate, or ridicule via social networking. If you are dealing with a situation with another person, keep it interpersonal not public.
4. Don’t Overuse: Creating an online presence is great as long as it’s not all you do. Constantly updating your status, posting pictures, writing messages, posting notes and so on can show an obsession of the site rather than a mere enthusiasm for it. A great way to combat overuse is to set daily time limits.
5. Don’t Bad Mouth Employers: Although you may get frustrated with your employer or with different work situations, never release your displeasure via social networking. Doing so can give the impression that you are disloyal, negative, or tactless; and if seen by the wrong person, it can even get you fired! Be sure to think twice before venting virtually.
6. Don’t Post Tasteless Pictures: Showing the online community pictures of your extracurricular activities can solicit unintended perceptions of who you are based on the photos posted. Basic rule of thumb: no alcohol/drugs, no revealing attire, and no shenanigans.
1. Keep Your Profile Updated: Having the most up-to-date information on your profile page is important because it shows an initiative for your online persona and a concern for the information being shared with the virtual world.
2. Use Your Privacy Settings: Make sure you’re only showing certain profile areas to certain people. Many social networking sites allow you to pick and choose who can view what on your page/profile, so take advantage of it!
3. Be Respectful: Airing your dirty laundry with the entire virtual world is ill-mannered. This means don’t harass, argue, apologize, instigate, or ridicule via social networking. If you are dealing with a situation with another person, keep it interpersonal not public.
4. Don’t Overuse: Creating an online presence is great as long as it’s not all you do. Constantly updating your status, posting pictures, writing messages, posting notes and so on can show an obsession of the site rather than a mere enthusiasm for it. A great way to combat overuse is to set daily time limits.
5. Don’t Bad Mouth Employers: Although you may get frustrated with your employer or with different work situations, never release your displeasure via social networking. Doing so can give the impression that you are disloyal, negative, or tactless; and if seen by the wrong person, it can even get you fired! Be sure to think twice before venting virtually.
6. Don’t Post Tasteless Pictures: Showing the online community pictures of your extracurricular activities can solicit unintended perceptions of who you are based on the photos posted. Basic rule of thumb: no alcohol/drugs, no revealing attire, and no shenanigans.
About the Author: This article was written by Candace Williams, M.S., Career Services Advisor
for Rasmussen College Online. In her role, she assists students in developing interviewing and networking skills, polishing professional career-seeking skills, and resume, cover letter, and reference preparation.
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