The effects of your virtual persona: Social Media's effects on hiring

Social media is one of the main ways students communicate. Aesthetics, trends, or fashion may influence the style of a profile, or the content associated. It is easier than ever to post with Facebook, X, Instagram, Snapchat and other platforms. Although social media today allows students and users to express themselves quicker and freer than ever, that freedom of expression can lead to adverse effects when applying to prospective employers.

A Forbes article published in 2013 titled “How Social Media Can Help (Or Hurt) You In Your Job Search” mentioned this, “Sites like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+ allow employers to get a glimpse of who you are outside the confines of a résumé, cover letter, or interview—while they offer job seekers the opportunity to learn about companies they’re interested in; connect with current and former employees; and hear about job openings instantaneously, among other things.”

This connection allows for free discourse between future employers and prospective hires using social media. A CareerBuilder survey concluded 70% of employers look at social media during the hiring process. Unless your account is private, an employer can view what you have posted.

A student takes a photo of a peer during an accounting banquet. (Photo by Jalen Larry)

An Academic Perspective

Dr. Yiyi Li, Assistant Professor of Marketing at The University of Texas at Arlington, researches social media. During our interview she focused on how a student’s profile online acts as a virtual representation of their personality and how it is important to consider the interview process as they start a career. 

During interviews employers are working through applicants to find a professional and personality fit. Li shared, “social media can be a determining factor in the later stages of the selection process.”

She stressed that at the minimum students should maintain an online presence, “LinkedIn allows for professional engagement with managers, former employers, or professional milestones. Building connections takes time to build a profile and meet people. Every user is a brand manager.” Marketing your skills through social media is about presenting yourself as an asset for an employer to add to their team.

As potential solutions for reimagining and crafting your social media presence Li stated, “As you take time to build a profile, consider the followers, the viewers who will visit your profile. Companies can see your comments and who or what kind of brands you like.”

Conclusion

Social media is increasingly becoming a part of the hiring process in different ways. LinkedIn markets your profile as a marketing tool for your career. As students keep their profile current it can expose them to job opportunities and allow them to network as well. Your career is living and breathing like a webpage. 

In the broader scope of social media, students should keep in mind that maintaining a public profile allows everyone’s eyes to view what you have accomplished and what you share. This virtual representation of your persona should be taken seriously.