In this age of liking, pinning and tweeting; does a blind date even truly exist? Who doesn’t do the classic Google search when first talking to potential partners? Or are you in the midst of a job search?
Almost 40% of companies use social networking to review prospective candidates (according to CareerBuilder). As a result, what kind of impression are you presenting via your social media channels?
For the generation that has grown up with Facebook, both in high school and university, the student lifestyle may soon be coming to an end (if it hasn’t already!) and I have a few tips for those younger Millennials:
Shameless Selfies
How many times have I seen the bathroom, booty, cleavage shot!?! I’m not saying to publicize your days in sweatpants, but keep it classy! Constantly changing the Facebook profile picture to a new, yet always similar, head shot is another big NO. Daily likes are not the way to gain confidence! These types of photos give an insecure image, with a touch of self-absorption!
Temperamental Tweets
Can you really create that much damage with 140 characters? Yes, you actually can! The world doesn’t need to know about an ex-crush, thoughts of marrying rich or that your nails require a manicure. Discriminatory comments after a night at the bar can also cost you a job. This may seem like common sense but, from young pro hockey players to former child actors, Twitter can be all the insight a person needs to judge you. We all recognize the downside of the regrettable drunken text. The same applies to tweeting; except this time, you’re exposing your intoxicated thoughts to everyone!
Proper Privacy
You’ve gone on the trip of a lifetime; unfortunately, you’ve now broken up. I’m not saying to forget these happy memories. If anything, I hope you’ve learned lessons along the way. Yet, if the majority of your albums contain an ex, what are you holding on to? If you’re not ready to delete, perhaps have those pictures only visible to a select few. How about those wall posts? If there’s no option to comment, my first thought is: what are you trying to hide? Make yourself available for interaction with those you choose.
Yes, YOU choose.
There is a reason Facebook has settings for friends, friends of friends, acquaintances, the general public, etc. Do you know which one you are using? Maybe it’s not necessary for everyone to see the aftermath of that first year keg party.
The dating world is tough enough as it is and the student unemployment rate is still significant.
Don’t send out the red flags before you’ve even been introduced! Good luck!
