Way back in 2017, the Harvard Crimson published an article about the college’s reversal of acceptances for at least ten students due to inappropriate social media posts. That trend has since escalated. Social media posts are now a top reason why jobs are lost, reputations are “cancelled,” and anyone who thoughtlessly posts something they might later regret may end up in a news headline.
After that Harvard incident, The Washington Post reported on another voided Harvard admission. The prospective student was flagged for “racist and vituperative comments he had made online when he was 16.”
Harvard is not the only college reviewing applicants’ social media use. All now do. So do many organizations. If you are using profanity, making comments that can be interpreted as racist, sexist, violent or just plain rude, you can lose that potential job, promotion or opportunity. (Own or launching a business and exploring lines of credits? Underwriters are now reviewing your business’s social media channels.)
Tips for Safe Social Media Use
If you don’t want to lose opportunities because of your social media use, use a neutral tone in your commentary. Avoid political messaging that might put off your clients or colleagues. Don’t offend anyone with a share that you might think is innocuous. Famous? Recall what happened to comedian Roseanne Barr, who was fired in 2018 from her popular program by ABC after posting a racist tweet. ABC did not want to be perceived as supporting her controversial views.
Don’t think that can happen to you? Check out Social Intelligence, a social media background checking company used by employers to vet potential hires. They review and flag user-generated content in four primary categories:
· Racist, sexist, or discriminatory behavior
· Sexually explicit material
· Threats or acts of violence
· Potentially illegal activity
“Why screen social media for your candidates? Reputation. Safeguard your hard-earned public trust with a reputation management process that effectively identifies candidates who might stain your name,” reads one message on the organization’s website.