More employers using social media to make their next hire

NEW YORK - Most job seekers know that they must tread carefully on social media in order not to jeopardize their employment chances. But perhaps the most basic flaws on Facebook or Twitter are as egregious as posting questionable content.

A Time article reveals that many employers are searching LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter in their search for new workers. They not only are looking for instances of poor judgment and reckless behavior but also for spelling and grammar.

The article reports that as many as 92 percent of potential employers are using social media to make their next hires. They even are approaching candidates directly on Facebook. That technique indicates a personal yet professional approach to the hiring process that allows the employer to seek out his or her ideal candidate.

But if social media play such a prominent role in the process, then everything about Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook suddenly becomes important. Sloppy grammar or careless spelling might be a turn-off to employers, and doors that might otherwise open to opportunities remain closed.

At the same time, recruiters are looking for positive attributes, such as references to an involvement with a charity or professional organization. References to illicit drugs, sex or alcohol often are construed negatively.

So how can you control your social media presence? It’s all in your hands. The best solution is to keep a neat-and-tidy account that features only content that you would approve of your boss seeing. Keep an eye on your grammar and think twice before you post something questionable.

You can always tighten your privacy settings, and that can limit some of the damage. But remember, the harder you are to find, the harder it will be for an employer to contact you.