Employers google for information on job applicants

[Kirsten]

There's just been a report on our evening news. Consumer protectors are warning that more and more companies use the internet for information on job applicants. They google for them to find out about their interests, attitude and personality, and they also check their profiles on social networks like facebook. If they see things there they do not like (i. e. partying photos, or rants about their bosses, ect.), it's most likely that an applicant won't be invited for a job interview.

Something we all should think about... What we post on the internet says a lot about ourselves.

Kirsten

[Randi]

So true! It's amazing that some people don't realise that.

[Edwina's Secretary]

I heard on the radio yesterday that something like 40% of employers check out applicants on Facebook.

It is very difficult in the US to check references - people here tend to sue so employers are reluctant to give out more than name, rank and serial number.

Candidates give "reference" but most people are not going to give anyone who they think will say anything but how wonderful they are.

So Facebook - Google - LinkedIn...

[happylabs]

Yes. I have heard that too. However, if someone has their profile set to private, only people who are their friends can see their photos. I don't have any incriminating evidence on my Facebook. They may, however, think I am a crazy cat lady!

[Sonia59]

So far, most employers or head hunters I have met (I am looking for a job) have checked my LinkedIn or Viadeo profile. I must say that I do the same! I search for Internet info about the people I will meet.

[smokey the elder]

This is why one should use one's head about posting stuff online! It's basically a big transparent fishbowl to anyone with the right data mining software, or even a search engine and a little patience. I guess if you wouldn't say something in person, then don't say it online.