Social media behavior that can ruin your career

Social media is booming, and we can barely remember how life was before. As much as social media is integrated into our personal lives, it can also have a big effect on our professional life. Sometimes positively but also negatively. To ensure that you can enjoy all the perks of social media without it hurting your job hunt, we have these tips and tricks to offer.

Do’s on social media

Put your page on private

Put your page on privateThe easiest way for all of your business to be all over the internet is to have your social media pages/profiles open to the public. Putting your page/profile on private does not mean that you are hiding stuff for your (future) employer. It just means that you are being careful and private. And there is nothing wrong with that, just like there is nothing wrong with having a public page.

Be mindful

Be mindful of the pictures that you post. Semi-naked pictures, pictures with obscene gestures, etc. could seriously damage your chances of getting your dream job.The same goes for memes. Things that you may find funny may offend others. Especially when the meme is politically charged or related to religion. This doesn’t mean that you can’t post anything about politics or religion. Just be mindful when you do and make sure that what you post doesn’t offend anyone. Even if you have a different belief or point of view of the situation. And remember reposting and sharing posts of others can be seen as you sharing their thoughts.

Interact with your employer

If you have a nice and positive picture that is work-related, you should tag your employer’s business page. Being featured on your company’s business page is a nice bonus. Liking and sharing important posts on your company’s business page is also a nice thing to do. And of course, don’t forget to follow your employers’ page.

Ask permission

If you want to follow or add a colleague or manager on social media, it is best to ask for their permission first. It doesn’t have to be formal but just a simple question asking if they mind if you add/follow them is enough. It may not seem like a big deal, but some people like to keep work and their personal life separate. So to avoid uncomfortable situations, simply ask first and add later.

Join a support group

Yes, a support group sounds very dramatic, but it can really help you on your journey to better your career. You can connect with peers, vent, laugh, and crack jokes. But also ask for advice and receive encouraging words. Just a place to relax and help you get through the (working)day. And you don’t have to look too far to find this group. Because we have our own group: Uncensored: Banks and Insurance Jobs. Join us now and tell a friend to tell a friend to join us too. And let’s make it the best group to fulfill your needs.

Don’ts on social media

Argue

Most of us like a discussion, and there is nothing wrong with that. A good debate can always open your eyes up to new views. But there’s a difference between debating/discussing and arguing. Whatever the case may be, keep it classy.

Make premature announcements

Of course, it’s very exciting when you get a new job or promotion. But make sure that you don’t make any announcements on social media until it’s official. An offer doesn’t mean that it is yours yet. A conversation that went well doesn’t mean that it will actually turn into more than just a conversation. Does this mean that you need to keep it a secret? Absolutely not, but just make sure it’s official before you share it with the world.

Spill company secrets

Every company has its own secrets. Try to know the difference between what is a known secret and a real secret. Because sharing secrets that are supposed to stay a secret can cost the company a lot. And it can cost you your job.

Lastly, we want to remind you to enjoy social media. It’s here to make life easier and more fun. So make sure you have fun and enjoy the perks of the internet. But don’t let it ruin your chances at landing that dream job. And remember, what goes on the internet stays on the internet forever.

Bonus tip: You can always put a disclaimer in your bio stating that these are your views and not of your employer if you mention your employer on your social media pages.