**Evaluating Job Seekers on Social Media**

Crafting a Professional Online Identity: A Job Seeker's Essential Guide

In today's digital age, it's no secret that employers are leveraging social media to scrutinize potential candidates. With a simple online search, they can uncover a wealth of information that reveals your personality, values, and priorities. It's crucial to be mindful of the digital footprint you're leaving behind, as it can make or break your chances of landing your dream job.

Conducting a self-audit is the first step towards creating a professional online presence. Type your name into a search engine and examine the results. Are there any red flags or less-than-flattering posts that could raise eyebrows? Take this opportunity to clean up your digital act and ensure that your online persona aligns with your professional brand.

Employers aren't just searching for skeletons in your digital closet; they're also looking for evidence that supports your job claims, verifies your work experience, and assesses your cultural fit. A staggering 70% of recruiters and hiring managers use social networks to research candidates, while 66% rely on search engines.

Deleting your social media profiles or locking them down entirely is not the solution. In fact, 47% of employers view a lack of online presence as a major turnoff. Instead, focus on showcasing your skills, expertise, and personality through thoughtful status updates and engaging content.

Employers are drawn to candidates who demonstrate a strong online presence, as it indicates a level of professionalism, adaptability, and enthusiasm. By showcasing your best self online, you can increase your chances of getting hired.

On the flip side, be aware that certain online behaviors can be major deal-breakers. Employers have cited reasons such as inappropriate posts, poor grammar, and inconsistencies in online profiles as major turnoffs.

It's not just job seekers who need to be mindful of their online presence; current employees are also under scrutiny. A significant 48% of employers monitor their employees' online activities, with 10% doing so daily. In some cases, employees have even faced disciplinary action or termination due to their online behavior.

By being proactive and strategic in your online presence, you can tip the scales in your favor and increase your chances of success in the competitive job market. Remember, your online identity is an essential component of your professional brand – nurture it wisely.