One in five employers uses social networks in hiring process

In a survey of more than 31,000 employers, CareerBuilder.com found that more than one in five employers browse social networking sites to screen job applicants. Furthermore, of the employers who use these sites to screen candidates, one-third said they have found information on such sites to have cause to toss the applicant out of consideration.

Such areas of concern include: alcohol and drug abuse information, inappropriate photos, poor communication skills, bad-mouthing of former employers or employees, inaccurate qualifications, unprofessional screen names, notes showing links to criminal behavior, and confidential information about past employers. 

On the other hand, not all social networking searches are used to take an applicant out of consideration. Of the 31,000 employers surveyed, 24% actually found content that helped convince them to hire an applicant. Employers said that profiles that show a professional image and solid references actually help increase the applicant's chances of being hired.

However you look at it, social networking sites have changed the relationship between potential employees and employers. In the past, a resume and an interview was all that an employer had to go on. In today's information thirsty society, there are countless ways in which employers can find information about an applicant, and social networking sites such as MySpace and Facebook, only help to fuel the fire. 

In conclusion, in order for an applicant to be safe when it comes to a potential job offer, one should be conscious of the information that is readily available to the public. Be smart about what you display on profiles and remember to keep it as professional as possible.

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