Effect of Digital Footprint on the Recruitment Process

In addition to CVs, job applications, and interviews, recruiters may screen candidates through social media. Studies show that 90% of employers consider a candidate's digital footprint activity when hiring and 79% of HR have rejected candidates based on their social media findings.

It's a good idea for job seekers to pay attention to both current and past social media activity. Don't let a digital footprint ruin your professional career prospects. Therefore, pay attention to a few things before uploading something on social media.

1. Avoid words that offend others

Posting rude, aggressive and reckless things on social media is a very bad idea. In terms of job search or even after becoming an employee recruitment staff and bosses are checking your digital footprint.

If you're having a tough, lousy day at work, don't be in a rush to take your anger out on social media. This can leave the impression of being unwise in dealing with problems that should be handled professionally.

Therefore, instead of complaining about office problems on social media, talk to your friends or family. This will minimize unwanted things in the future.

2. Check facts before uploading something

The movement of digital information is very fast. With just one button you can share information with your followers or social media visitors. It's a good idea before you upload or share information, pay attention to the truth again.

Reread the existing information, then verify it with other news from a different point of view. If necessary, ask people who are more familiar with the topic of discussion.

If you have any doubts about its veracity it is best not to share it at all. By taking these steps, you have minimized the spread of hoaxes.

3. Show yourself positively

Social media is a place where you can build your self-image. 51% of recruiters admit that they check their digital footprint to see if a candidate fits into the company culture. If it is considered negative, the company will not hire you.

Review your posts on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and other social media. Have you ever posted provocative photos? Pay attention to whether there are excessive tweets, sharing hoaxes, gossiping, or other negative things that can have a bad impact on you?

Try to keep your social media image and uploaded content positive. You can share or tell about your hobbies and interests. Build your social media in a respectful manner, and showcase your knowledge of the career field you want to pursue.

4. Don't upload anything against the law

Recruiters will look for posts that are considered dangerous such as illegal things that are against the law. So have you ever shared some confidential information in your previous workplace?

Not only that, don't even think about lying in your CV by giving wrong information. If you get caught, not only your job, but you personally and your professional career will be threatened.

5. Don't post anything that smells of SARA

Sharing content such as memes and videos that are considered funny is one of the things that social media users often do today. If you also like to share these things, make sure the content does not contain SARA or other sensitive issues that have the potential to offend.

Even if you don't mean to hurt or offend, people who see the post may not have the same sense of humor as you. The best thing you can do is keep your most controversial opinions to yourself and your closest friends.

The use of social media can hinder your job search or even get in the way of your desired career path. However, social media is not always like that. In many ways, social media can increase opportunities to build a career.

Therefore, make sure that your social media posts are positive. Remove and secure anything that could potentially be viewed as bad professionally. This does not only occur during the recruitment process, but also smooth relations with clients or other cooperation partners.