Don't think that your employer is watching you? They are!! There have been so may recent discussions and articles regarding social media such as Twitter and Facebook. They are the new tools in networking and promoting a business but if not used properly, they can also get you into deep trouble.
The new trend is for employers to do a google search and take a look at what kind of person you are through social media. Through working with various clients of all ages, there have been horror stories of people getting let go from their positions over what is "found out" about them over Facebook. Not only are professionals being fired, job seekers are not even getting interviews because of what is found on their social media profiles. College seniors have had job offers taken back due to information posted on their Facebook. There was a story just recently of a teacher who was fired because of something that was put on her Facebook "wall", and what was written wasn't even written by her, but by a friend of hers.
Students, young professionals and anyone who has an account with one of these programs need to be aware of the dangers a few words or pictures can do to your reputation, your career and your future. Just today, there is an article on yahoo.com that talks about this very issue. Take a look: http://specials.msn.com/A-List/Lifestyle/Fired-over-Facebook.aspx?cp-documentid=25096286&imageindex=1
Understandably, people are going to have these sites. They are a great way to connect with friends and family and they are fun. If you are going to have an account, however, here are some tips when utilizing these sites:
* Be careful who your friends are. - Make sure that you are allowing those that you trust and know to have access to your information and to be able to post to your site.
* Are your pictures appropriate? - Whether it's you and a friend with an alcoholic drink in your had, or you at a party, be cognizant of the fact that employers could be searching for you and are the pictures you are posting the way you want to be represented.
* Think before you write! - Before ranting about your current boss, teacher or even friend, think again about how this is going to be perceived. As the article above proves, you can get fired from having a bad day at work.
* Try LinkedIn! - If you are seeking an opportunity to network and have a place to post your successes and interesting news about yourself, join LinkedInhttp://www.LinkedIn.com. It is a "professional" Facebook that allows recruiters, potential employers and your network to take a look at what you are up to. You also have the ability to search for job postings!
Hopefully this will raise your awareness of how popular these sites are and make you think about who is looking at them. There is more of a chance that someone, like your boss, has looked you up that you think.
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