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Your future employers want to know who they are hiring. Social media and employment are increasingly connected in a digital-first job market. Learn how employers view you on social media, what they check, and how to use your online presence to build credibility and strengthen your career prospects.
Today’s job market is digital-first. Your CV may not actually be the first impression that an employer has of you. Your online footprint often speaks before your resume has a chance. This could be your LinkedIn profile, Instagram, Facebook or other, less obvious, forms of online presence. Therefore, understanding the link between social media and potential employers is crucial.
Social media screening is more common in countries like the United States than in Europe. However, regardless of which country you’re working in, the influence of social media presence shouldn’t be underestimated. Social media and your online presence can create both opportunity and risk. When used the right way, it can be a strategic career tool.
Here you will learn how to cultivate your online presence and take control of your own digital story to showcase yourself in the best light to potential employers.
In the United States, checking the social media of a potential job applicant is fairly common. For example, 7 in 10 companies (70%) used social media to research potential job candidates. Moreover, according to Harvard Business Review, up to 70% of employers in the U.S. check candidates’ social media profiles during recruitment.
However, background checks are more common in certain industries, such as those working in education/childcare, healthcare, financial services, or security. This is often to ensure a candidate’s integrity.
That being said, there are many regulations and legal requirements when screening candidates online. There are various anti-discrimination and data privacy laws worldwide, limiting the access to personal information. For instance, in the EU, there is the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). In the U.S., there is the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
Organizations in Germany, France, and Switzerland may use information from professional social networks, such as LinkedIn. However, they aren’t allowed to collect information about candidates from personal social media sites such as Facebook, Instagram, or X.
However, rules and regulations vary per country, industry, and company. Therefore, it is wise to use social media with nuance.
The digital world is in flux, and with it, digital etiquette is shifting. What is okay to post and what isn’t? What could be a potential red flag to potential business partners or employers?
Understanding the do’s and don’ts of social media in relation to employment can make a significant difference in learning how you present yourself. This way, you can leverage your online presence to your own advantage.
Here are some quick tips to make sure you present your best self online:
Ultimately, your digital presence tells a story whether you shape it or not. The good news is that by being intentional and proactive with your social media, you can use it as a career asset.
Social media platforms like LinkedIn can amplify your strengths and achievements. With the right mindset, you can craft your narrative, own your growth, and let your online presence work for you.
Learn more about what kind of jobs you can pursue with a master’s on our Careers page.
The job market is evolving fast, and recent graduates face more pressure than ever. This guide offers real-world advice from graduates along with tips to stand out, network smartly, and build a future-proof career. Learn how to turn today’s challenges into tomorrow’s opportunities.
