During a round of recruitment, a job applicant’s profile was accidentally discovered on an adult social platform, and that’s the end of the story. Does it seem unfair to you? Surely it can’t be THAT bad right?
The statistic says otherwise. According to CareerBuilder, over 50% of employers decided to not hire someone because of what they have found online when conducting social media screenings during the hiring process.
The process of screening an applicant’s online profile and presence is also known as cybervetting.
It has become a crucial part of the hiring process in recent years as an additional screening layer.
But why should online profiles concern potential employers? Afterall, we were told to not judge a book by its cover right? If the applicant has considerable ability and experience, why should we need to pay attention to his/ her personal affairs?
Think further and beyond. What if the online profile is discovered by important clients or stakeholders of the company? Will the company’s reputation be damaged? Will it lead to a loss of significant clients?
Not only that, will it lead to complicated men and women relationships in the company, affecting work progress and productivity? Knowing a person’s online persona could affect how we view them in real life, especially when it comes to professionalism.
Most companies will not be willing to face the risk and consequences, even if the chances are slim. Hence, it is not uncommon if companies are not willing to hire applicants due to their online profiles.
Back to the story, each of us has the right to do anything and use any shortcuts in exchange for the money that we want. For example, offering escort services and being involved in shady businesses. Ultimately, one has to be aware of the risk and potential costs that it may bring.
It might sound cliché, anyone can create wealth as long as they work hard for it. Everyone is entitled to their fruits of labour but they are also solely responsible for the method(s) used to obtain the fruits. Once a reputation is damaged, no amount of effort and money can make up for it.
For jobseekers, please be extra careful of what you post online. Make sure that your online profile does not cause a potential threat to your career. You’ll never know how and when your online persona can be used against you.
