Caution needs to be applied when researching candidates through their online social media. It is still in many ways a legal gray area to use this personal information in regards to a hiring decision. However, some argue that because the profiles are public they are acceptable ways to review candidates prior to hiring. Here are some things to keep in mind while screening candidates though social media.
- How to review LinkedIn. LinkedIn was designed to be the professional social networking site. Your candidates will want you to access this information so they will make sure they put their best foot forward. This is a great place to start researching. Review their job history and their recommendations. If they don’t have any recommendations from former clients, coworkers, or managers, this may be a red flag. You also want to look at the people they’ve connected with and the groups to which they belong.
- How to review Facebook. This is a little trickier when it comes to what is considered appropriate information. Much of your ability to access their information on Facebook will depend entirely on their security settings. If you click on their “About” section you may see anything from their jobs and education to lists of their favorite television shows. You may also be able to review their photos but be cautious about doing this. You may be unintentionally discriminatory if you make a decision based on appearance.
- How to review Twitter. Since Twitter is an entirely public platform it should be easy to review the Tweets of a potential employee. The best way to use this microblogging site is to look at how the individual communicates. If they can craft well thought out sentences while still only using 140 characters they may be just the ticket. Watch out for poor grammar, spelling, or inappropriate content.
- How to review Pinterest. One of the fastest growing sites on the web is the visual media site Pinterest. This is a great way to see if your potential candidate could fit in with your company culture. For instance, if most of your team loves fitness and sports and you see a lot of healthy pins on the candidate’s board, they may be a perfect match. Pinterest, like Twitter, is public to view.
Are you looking for more advice for reviewing candidates though social media? If you are looking for a temp agency in Detroit MI, contact Harvard Resource Solutions today.
Leave a Reply