Halloween is almost here, and in honour of this spooky month let’s talk about scary social media! Although it’s easy to have fun online nowadays, with the ease of connecting with family and friends and a myriad of entertaining content to engage in, it can get scary when social media plays a vital role in your job searching journey.

Below are 4 reasons how social media can affect your job search and turn from fun to frightening in an instant!

1. Controversial and Inappropriate Posts
   Social media is meant to be fun. But there’s a fine line between “fun” and “controversial”. It’s important to keep in mind that employers often turn to social media as a reliable form of background investigation. In this regard, it’s critical to keep in mind to always “think before you post” and avoid future regret when it comes to job searching.
2. Manipulating Your Online Presence
   Aside from controversial and inappropriate posts, creating a fake persona or manipulating your online presence to be something you aren’t is a no-go. When it comes to employers, it’s mandatory to have a legitimate online presence that sparks their interest in wanting to hire you, work with you and become a perfect candidate for their company. Having a professional Linkedin profile is a common resource for employers, so ensure that your profile is accurate and up-to-date.
3. Ridiculing Your Previous Employers
   Some individuals may make it a habit to degrade their previous employers any chance they get. While this may not be entirely illegal, it is likely unwise. Prospective employers keep a close eye on how you represent your previous employers. If you need to vent, try to keep it offline to a trusted family member or friend.
4. Unavailable Social Media Presence
   Having an active social media presence can be overwhelming, but on the contrary – not having one doesn’t necessarily mean you’re safe. As mentioned above, employers appreciate individuals with a professional online presence that provides a glimpse of their character, their background and information relevant to the job being applied for.

It may be all fun and games in the world of social media. But when it comes to job searching, keep in mind that most if not all of your social media profiles are considered. Being controversial in your online presence is a red flag, while being completely incognito also can’t be assumed to be safe. Maintaining a balance between a professional online presence and a legitimate persona that employers seek to work with is the key. When in doubt, always think before you click and keep in mind that your current online activities may haunt you in the future.