In today’s world, you need more than a solid resume and cover letter to be considered for a job. A positive online presence is just as important. If you don’t have one, then it’s going to impact the impression you’re making on recruiters and hiring managers…and not in a good day.

In fact, according to a 2018 CareerBuilder survey, 70% of employers use social media to screen candidates during the hiring process. As a result, it’s likely a hiring manager will find any inappropriate content you’ve posted, then think twice about offering you the job.

What are some of the biggest issues they look out for? Murray Resources, one of the best staffing agencies in Houston, explains:

Rants

There’s nothing wrong with talking politics on your social media profile page. However, when you berate or get aggressive with anyone who doesn’t agree with you, then potential employers will quickly cross you off the list of potential candidates to consider.

Lies

Be honest with whatever you tell hiring managers. For instance, don’t say you love working with people when you have a Facebook book page full of tirades against all the people you don’t like. It’s easy enough for them to look you up and find out the truth.

Red flags

Any materials, such as inappropriate photos or racist comments are going to get you pulled out of the running for a job. Employers don’t want to go near any candidates who have questionable judgment and post this kind of content.

Mocking

Cracking jokes is one thing. But actively making fun of someone or shaming them because of their appearance will make a hiring manager wonder how you’ll work with those who are different from you.

Bashing

You might have left behind some burnt bridges at a past employer. But don’t talk about it – or worse, bash them – online. If you do, you’re going to come off looking less than professional to hiring managers. The last thing they want to do is hire a complainer, especially one who takes their negative comments public.

If you think you have any questionable posts, before you start your job search, you should go through a cleansing process. Review your social media profiles, including photos, and look for anything that might be misconstrued by a hiring manager or paint you in a negative light. When in doubt, remove it. In addition, Google your name to see what a potential employer will find when they do the same.

The bottom line? Finding your next great job isn’t easy. Don’t make it harder by posting negative content on social media.

Interested in professional help with your job search?

Contact Murray Resources, one of the best staffing agencies in Houston. As experienced recruiters, we know what employers want – and don’t want – from job candidates. We can help you with every aspect of your search, so you land a rewarding new role. Find out more today by connecting with our team.