What Not to Post on Social Media
Everyone knows that social media is like an addiction! Sometimes, even when we try our hardest not to, we just can’t help scrolling and posting for hours day-to-day. People use social media sites for many different reasons. However, one of those reasons are professional, and for many college students, good and clean social media is a job-securing media. Here are some rules you should follow when it comes to things you shouldn’t post on social media.
Explicit Content
Now many of us should already know about this but the Internet is a very public place. All it takes is one posting and your most private moments are out for the world to see forever. Even when you think you are sharing privately, consider what you do and who will see before you press that ‘send’ button.
Offensive Content
In today’s time, with many conversations about diversity and inclusion are taking place, take into account what you say and how you choose to say them. Racism, discrimination and sexism shouldn’t be a factor in your life. Whether you’re joking around or not, take in consideration how you may make someone feel and if what you’re saying could be seen as bigotry. Keep in mind to always think before you share!
Profanity
It is possible that the language you use on social media could be the same language that you use to communicate with future coworkers. It’s understandable that the occasional slip-up may happen but try not to make curse words a part of your everyday conversations. It’s best to eliminate profanity online and offline altogether. Keep your vocabulary clean!
Negative Opinions about professor/boss/job
One look at a tweet about you complaining about someone/something that involves any sort of professionalism could have your application tossed straight into the trash. You don’t want future employers to second-guess if you really like the work you’re doing or not. You never know who could be watching!
Partying Pictures
As tempting as it is to share all of those great photos of you living it up with your friends and enjoying yourself, to an employer it’s not good to see party pictures and only party pictures. It’s important that you come off as someone who has good character and is responsible. You’re not banned from showing fun but keep those kinds of postings to a minimum.
Arguments
We’ve all probably had our fair share of social media arguments here and there. Just keep in mind that to an employer, coming off as argumentative does not make you an ideal job prospect. Your future boss is looking for someone who makes the job easier, not difficult. The next time you find yourself in a petty argument on the Internet, take that business offline.
By reading this I hope you understand how important it is to use social media is a responsible way. You never know, your future boss could already be watching!
