Social Media's Potential Impact on An Interview

In today's digital age, most people have some form of social media, both personal and professional. The impact that it can have upon a job interview is more significant now than it ever has been in the past and employers are increasingly using various online platforms in which to learn more information about candidates. This can ultimately influence whether or not you are successful or not in securing the job that you are applying for depending upon the content of your social media. All information that is made visible and that you promote or share on any platform can go either way - it can either help you or hinder you if your potential employer decides to search through your content.

If you are wondering about the legal aspect to this, then to answer your question, yes - it is perfectly legal for an employer to conduct checks on someone’s social media providing that they are conducted lawfully and correctly. However, some of what may be discovered during these checks may be information that employers are prohibited from taking into account when interviewing prospective candidates.

Social media will give employers the opportunity to look into your personal and professional life beyond the version that is articulated via a CV. Those hiring will often review candidates profiles on common platforms such as LinkedIn to gain insight into their personality, values and overall online presence.

Positive aspects of your social media will be well received, especially for example, a well crafted LinkedIn profile which highlights your professional achievements, involvement within the industry and additionally it will showcase a thoughtful network which can work in your favour. Various platforms can be utilised to share professional insights and engage in relevant conversations which go a long way in demonstrating your expertise, passion and dedication towards your chosen field. These professional accounts can provide a glimpse into work ethic, personal boundaries, creativity and team collaborations.

However, take note that a poorly managed personal account or one that has content which may be viewed as inappropriate, distasteful or offensive may have detrimental effects on your job opportunities so it may be wise to carefully scrutinise your accounts prior to embarking on your job searches. Remove or adjust any content that has the potential to appear unprofessional or even controversial and use privacy settings to control who can view your personal content.

Social media has a tangible impact on job interviews with employers often searching your profiles before meeting with you. Therefore, taking time to craft a positive and professional image has the capacity to contribute towards your success in an increasingly competitive job market.