Social media dos and don’ts for professionals

The one thing to know about social media when you’re looking for a job

We asked Justin, Director of Social Media for Fidelity Careers, for his take on social media dos and don’ts for professionals and job seekers. He says, “The number one thing job seekers need to know is that, with the expansion of social media, employers have more access than ever to job seekers. Job seekers are more visible to employers and that creates both risks and opportunities.”

That means you need to be savvy about what you share online. On the one hand, be mindful about the types of personal information you share. Posting inappropriate content is a risk in regard to both your current employment and when looking for a job. The flip side is that social media gives you a great opportunity to shape your own narrative. That means you can use it to present yourself in a positive light to your professional network and potential employers.

While social media can pose challenges for job seekers, it also provides incredible opportunities.

Employers look at social media as part of their hiring process

Employers can—and will—look at your social media accounts at any point in the hiring process. They might look at your profiles and postings:

1. As part of their search for candidates. Recruiters regularly search LinkedIn profiles and other social media for candidates with skills that match their needs.
2. As soon as they consider you a potential job candidate
3. Once they’ve scheduled an interview with you. Some companies review social media accounts in preparation for meeting job candidates.
4. After your interview. Other companies like to meet potential job candidates before looking at their social media.

Conduct an audit of your social media accounts

It’s a good idea to periodically audit your social media accounts—whether you’re looking for a new job or you just want to stay in line with your company’s policies.

Spend some time looking through each of your social media channels. To ensure they show you in the best possible light, review these items:

Dos:

• Do check your privacy settings. If you like to let it all hang out on social media with your friends—risque humor, swearing, sharing photos of nights on the town—make sure your content isn’t viewable to people you don’t know. (Though be aware that even privacy settings are no guarantee your social media content won’t land in front of a potential employer. Nothing is fully private on the internet.)

Don’ts:

• Don’t post about controversial or divisive topics without thinking it through. Although sharing your values and beliefs online might pull you out of the running for some roles, that could be a good thing. It could weed out the wrong opportunities and make you appealing to companies that share your values.
• Don’t share content or photos indicating heavy drinking, drug use, or other inappropriate content
• Don’t complain about your job or your current boss

In some cases, you simply have to have an advanced degree if you want to move forward in your career.

Leverage social media to put yourself in the best light

Social media poses challenges for professionals and job seekers alike. It also provides incredible opportunities if they’re used right.

You can shape the narrative you want to share with the world. On sites like LinkedIn, the largest professional social media platform in the world, you have the opportunity to share expertise and network with people in your desired industry.

Dos and don’ts for professional platforms:

Dos:

• Do use social media as a learning tool. Listen more than you speak. See what people are talking about in the industry. Notice trends, and when you have something to add, do it!
• Do celebrate other’s achievements. It’s a simple thing to say, “Way to go!” or “Congrats!” when someone in your network shares their accomplishments.
• Do reshare content specific to your industry or your desired industry. Comment on why you shared it or what you found interesting.
• Do ask a genuine question. “What’s the best way to…?” or “I noticed this trend in my industry—what do managers/developers/creatives think?” Show people you’re curious and start a discussion.
• Do let people see that you’re human—even when you’re not having a perfect day. People value authenticity and approachability.
• Do tell people a little about yourself outside of work. LinkedIn has let its hair down a little since the pandemic. You’ll see more personal photos than in the past—favorite places, their furry coworkers, hobbies, etc.

Don’ts:

• Don’t overshare personal information. Justin advises doing a “gut check” if you question whether something is too personal to share. Ask a friend to see if you’re being too open.
• Don’t pretend to be something you’re not
• Don’t share things that might reflect poorly on your current company. Not only will that get you in hot water with your current employer, but it’s a huge red flag for potential employers.
• Don’t violate your current employer’s social media policy. (Do check to see what it says!)
• Don’t make connections just to grow your numbers. Especially on LinkedIn, people are looking for connections with substance.

While LinkedIn is the go-to social media platform for professionals, don’t forget about your other social media accounts. Use them strategically to showcase your talents. Keep them “recruiter-friendly” if you regularly share things publicly.

Celebrate other’s achievements. It’s a simple thing to say, “Way to go!” or “Congrats!” when someone in your network shares their accomplishments.

Final thoughts

We can hardly remember a time when social media wasn’t a part of our daily lives. It’s a tool as much as it is a risk, so use it wisely.