Minnesota, USA -June 8, 2011 - For some they started social networking quite young, by the time they were 13 years old -now this 'beginning age' appears to be even increasingly popular based on the data that is filtering out. Undoubtedly, the users in the younger age group do not realize the consequences of some of their 'social networking interactions'. Then again, people of all ages could also be making mistakes and not realizing the damaging effects it has on their present and future life in a career.
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Tip #1 Do not make negative comments about your current job or coworkers
Even if it is a small comment about a particular part of a job that you do not enjoy, it could be enough to damage your relationship with your employer. This is career suicide if you are planning on moving up in the company; in the company's eyes, if you cannot handle your current work, how could you handle anything farther up
Tip #2 Be mindful of the pictures that are posted online -whether they are uploaded by you or any of your friends
It can normally go without saying that you should not have any 'nude' or extra revealing photos on your profile; even if you are clothed and in a 'suggestive' position, it could be just as harmful as the nude photos. Perhaps this can go without saying, but do not include photos of drinking alcohol or doing any illegal activities.
In addition, employers could search through the profiles of your closest friends. Even though photos may not be tagged, make sure that there are not any damaging photos out there of you.
Tip #3 Do not post all of your interests, especially the 'private' interests that could potentially give employers any doubts
I understand that sometimes there are groups or profiles out there that you cannot resist but follow. Unfortunately, these intimate details may reveal more than what you realize. For instance, maybe you are following a parenting site but do not have any children yet; this helps your possible employer gauge on whether or not you'd be 'absent' from work due to maternity/paternity leave. Even though you may only be following because you love children or your relatives' children, it becomes very personal to employers. Look over all your interests and decide whether they suggest something other than what they are.
Tip #4 Before posting a comment, picture, or link, wait 30 seconds to think of how it could affect the thoughts of your close friends/coworkers (possible references) and also employers
Everyone makes mistakes in anger or even in moments of 'laughter'. We must remember though that what one could see as a 'joke', another person may seem as offensive. Do not let any pictures or comments suggest anything to employers that you would not want to be suggested.
Tip #5 Choose your 'friends' wisely, employers could also judge you based off of them; the old saying, 'guilty by association' is true
If an employer sees that your friends have pictures of party-after-party and there are also comments about it, it can be assumed that you also attended these 'out-of-control' parties even though there may not be any evidence of it; employers know that we communicate with people in which we can relate, so ensure that these are 'positive' individuals with good lifestyles.
Tip #5 Watch your language -both verbal and 'non-verbal'
It is a no-brainer, but do not put up photos featuring your middle finger or anyone else's middle finger! Any actions like this show your disrespect for others. Plus, it reveals your lack of intelligence or lack of words for communicating.
When it comes to the wording of your comments, refrain from any curse words. Obviously it does no reflect anything good on your part.
Tip #6 Keep the controversial topics to a minimum
Aside from employers not wanting to see anyone excessively commenting on certain issues, they also prompt others to comment; ultimately, it could lead to fighting words which will show an employer that you are not good at resolving conflict with others. Actually, it will appear that you are starting the conflict which is even worse.
Tip #7 Treat others with kindness -any instances of hostility may put up red flags for an employer
Even if you and your friends know that you are kidding, remember that you should not post degrading comments or anything likewise. Understandably it will cause the employer to be concerned that you could not get along well with others on the job. Do not let mean words or misinterpretations prevent you from getting the job.
Tip #8 Do not be 'over social'; if there are comments all day, employers will question if you ever actually work
Some people will post messages on social networking sites while they are at work; normally the employer already knows about this, but it could further prove the problem to them. Do not let yourself get into the habit of being too social. Even if it does not affect your current employment, your future employer may wonder when you 'worked' because there are so many messages during that time that they cannot believe you could actually do anything else.