Facebook and Work

You have been into several interviews since you left your last job. You had good grades back in school, good references, you’re smart. You are well-versed and very articulate. In fact, it feels as if you were almost hired after every job interview. So what is it that’s keeping you from landing a new job?

Facebook and Work

This could be the very question you are asking yourself after investing time and money in that newly-bought business suit to be worn on that yet another  “important” job interview, in fact, your third in this present yourself in a very professional manner. What then is the problem?

Due to the advent of new technologies within our fingertips, it has never been easier for people to connect. Connect electronically, that is.  People have been very comfortable interacting online. And because it’s just so comfy, we do it when we feel like doing it. Right? Wrong!

Below could be the list of the things you have done in the past. I know you’re guilty, so read on.

1. You switch on your PC at the office first thing in the morning and automatically answered the ever-persistent question:  “What’s on your mind? “
2. You never logged out because you want to be the first to comment on friends’ posts.
3. You become hysterical when Internet connection is bad. As if it’s a matter of life-and-death. Duh!
4. You post pics of yourself sitting on your Boss’ desk to give an image of having a corner office.

I know this happens as a friend of mine was caught doing this. Sure, he didn’t get fired but he got some demerits in the eyes of the Boss.

1. When you have a bad day, you hate work , your office or your Boss, you don’t keep it to yourself. You vent out with all your heart, electronically, through the mighty Facebook. Soon enough, your friends would be asking you “what happened?”  You will of course elaborate and answer which will make you feel better, then, you go back to work. Damage done before you know it.
2. When you’re on a vacation to some island, you post pics of yourself in that skimpy bikini. You have tanned anyway, which will make your friends envy you. Proud?
3. When you’re on a sick leave, you just filed a leave from work, but no, not from Facebook. You still post status. There is never a leave form Facebook anyway, so, why not?
4. And the sure hit? You’ve made everyone in the office your friends!

These things happen every day, everywhere. People have been just so comfortable being online and forget about the consequences and implications of whatever they say, whenever they say it. Let us not forget to be responsible for our actions. Your Facebook post today isn’t just a post. It’s not just what you’ve posted; it’s also when you’ve posted it. Hiring Managers take notice of these.  So, if you’re in for the next job hunt, be sure to clean your image online. Your profile and posts could be taken against you. Don’t let those hurt your chances of getting that great job.