KSDK's Scrubbing your social history

KSDK's article, "Scrubbing Your Social History," examines the growing practice of employers reviewing candidates' social media profiles during the hiring process. Reporter Rene Knott highlights the importance of maintaining a professional online presence, as personal posts can significantly impact employment opportunities. It also offers practical advice on how individuals can manage and clean up their digital footprints to present themselves favorably to potential employers.

Takeaways included:

“Every job is now using social media to gain some type of reference on what type of person you are,” says Marisa Lather of 2e Creative.

Marisa Lather is digital marketing strategist. She says what’s on the internet doesn’t go away with time.
“Whatever is on the internet can be found,” Lather warns.

Here are a few guidelines for what not to have on your social media.

Don’t use offensive language and don’t use poor grammar.

“If you can’t double check grammar in writing, if you’re not going to double check your work you probably won’t check your work for me,” Lather explained.

Don’t bad mouth your old boss or job. Lather says, “don’t want to be seen as someone who focuses on the negatives.”

Don’t post pictures in inappropriate clothing. “You don’t want employers seeing those things if you want to get the job,” Lather continued.

Don’t display extremist beliefs.

“I would not put anything that will potentially offend anybody out there,” advises Lather.

So how do you know what’s out about you on the web? Just Google yourself, and your social media history will show up on screen. You also want to click on the images as well.

“Things can come up where you were tagged were you were not aware,” says Lather.

But you should not be afraid of social media. It can also help in reaching your goals by helping present your brand.

“Put your goals on your social media profiles. People will know what your intentions are and you’ll be able to get there quicker,” Lather said.

For a comprehensive understanding of these considerations and tips on safeguarding your online reputation, read the full article on KSDK's website.