We recently posted a link on our FMJ Twitter account to this CNN story which created some interesting discussion. Titled “What Your Post Could Cost You,” this particular news segment focused on the Internet screening of current and potential employees–a topic you may be familiar with.

Social media has become a key component of the business agenda. So to me, it makes sense that it would be integrated into the screening process.

What does this mean for employees?

Similar to most of you out there, I have Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, LinkedIn, etc., for both personal and professional use. I don’t have separate accounts for different purposes; I have intertwined the personal and professional to showcase both sides of who I am. If you aren’t showing the face behind the name, brand, company or business, then what have you got to offer? These days, it’s all about establishing a relationship and maintaining a connection on a more personal level, even if you are a professional in your field.

But how personal?

As with anything that hits the Internet, it’s there forever, locked somewhere in cyberspace ever to be accessed by the Internet Gods for all eternity. Okay, that might be a little far-fetched–but you get the picture. Bottom line: what goes on the Web, stays on the Web.

Thus as an employee, it’s important to self-censor when it comes to social media while simultaneously remaining transparent, honest, open and real.

Clearly, this isn’t as easy as it sounds. It’s about finding balance while bearing in mind that whatever you post, write and share via social media could be floating around on the Web for years, decades or even centuries to come.

Be mindful of the content you provide.

Then I came across this New York Times article which discusses how the job search has changed since the advent of social media. And it touches on this idea as well.

“… they [job hunters] must be constantly vigilant about managing their online reputation; the slightest slip may discourage potential employers.”

Find the balance

The next time you consider posting a picture from a friend’s birthday party on Facebook, complaining about work via Twitter, talking about happy hour, etc., remember that your career and professional life–and future in the professional world–will most likely (if not certainly) include social media background checking and screening.

Personally, I think a little discretion goes a long way. Adjust your privacy settings, self-censor your postings, and give some thought/consideration to what you put out there.

I guess the real question is, “What kind of impression do you want to leave online?”

- LS