According to a 2009 CareerBuilder survey, 45 percent of employers use Facebook and Twitter to screen job applicants. More and more people have created profiles on multiple social networking sites, making it easier to connect with people all over the world, but also making it easier for employers to search you out on the Internet. This means that you need to be more and more conscious of what you post online.
The first thing to do is manage your privacy settings. Websites like Facebook and Twitter allow you to specify which information can be seen by which users. In order to make sure that your settings are correct, try searching your profile while you’re logged out. See what a potential employer would see if they typed your name in the search box.
However, even with the strictest of privacy settings, some employers still find a way to see your full 
profile. This means you need to be cautious about everything you post. Ask yourself, “Would I want a potential employer to see/read this?” If the answer’s no…DON’T POST IT! The CareerBuilder survey also found that the main reasons an employer rejected a candidate based on their online profile were provocative or inappropriate photographs, content about drinking or using drugs, and bad-mouthing a previous employer or co-worker. Don’t let comments like these ruin your prospects!
In many industries, employers want to see that you’re actively using social networking sites. It’s good to have an online presence, just make sure it’s a positive one. What may be okay to share with friends is possibly not okay to share in a professional atmosphere. Always keep in the back of your mind, “Who is going to see this?” Then you won’t be in hot water when you’re asked to explain your Facebook profile picture in a job interview.
Have you taken any other steps to modify your online profiles?
