One in Five Employers Uses Social Networks in the Hiring Process

According to a survey released by CareerBuilder.com , of more than 31,000 employers , more than one in five employers search social networking sites to screen job candidates. Of the hiring managers who use social networks, one-third said they found information on such sites that caused them to toss the candidate out of consideration for a job.
Some 22% of employers said they already review social networks to screen candidates, while an additional 9% said they are planning to do so. Only 11% of managers used the technology in 2006.
The top areas of concern found on social networking sites include:
ü Information about alcohol or drug use
ü Inappropriate photos or information posted
ü Poor communication skills
ü Bad-mouthing former employers or fellow employees
ü Unprofessional screen names
ü Notes showing links to criminal behavior
ü Confidential information about past employers
On a positive side, the survey also found that 24% of hiring managers found content on social networks that actually helped convince them to hire a candidate. The managers stated that profiles showing a professional image and solid references can boost a candidate’s chance for a job.
Recommendations to make your social networking site work to your job seeking advantage include:
§ Remove pictures, content and links that can send the wrong message to potential employers.
§ Update social networking profiles regularly to highlight latest accomplishments
§ Consider blocking comments to avoid questionable posts
§ Avoid joining groups whose names could turn off potential employers
§ Consider setting profile to private so only designated friends can view it

Information from computerworld.com