The Facebook Job Search Dilemma

Keeping in touch with your friends has never been easier, thanks to social networking sites like Facebook, MySpace and Hi5. Do a Facebook search and you’ll find the latest updates on your friends’ lives.

Unknown to many however, your profile on these sites could possibly hamper your job search. Like it or not, there are employers that search your social networking accounts to get additional information about you. Of course, this is not part of the formal hiring process – at least it shouldn’t be. State and Federal laws are clear that personal details like religion, race, health or other personal information (that could be included in your social networking accounts) should never be asked when screening applicants. However, it becomes difficult to ignore these factors once employers stumble upon such personal details.

For instance, detailed accounts of your wild spring break parties could affect your chances with potential employers. While such events may be funny to your close friends, employers could easily judge you the wrong way.

Some may argue that a Facebook search for gathering information about potential employees is unethical and beyond the jurisdiction of employers - and they could be right about that argument. However, would-be employers will most definitely be able to see whatever you upload for public consumption, especially if they outright do a Facebook search on you.

It’s therefore advisable not to be too personal when uploading posts. In addition, it’s also not a good idea to make up stories that make you look “cooler” to your friends. You always have to remember to protect yourself and your image to the rest of the public, including potential employers. Anything you upload can work against you especially during the hiring process, and thus hamper your career search.

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