Facebook referenced by one-in-five recruiters

ONE IN five employers admit to vetting potential recruits using Facebook and other social-networking websites in a bid to find out more about candidates, while more than two-thirds routinely conduct other online searches, according to a survey by recruitment consultancy Joslin Rowe.

“The research may worry some candidates – particularly those who bare all on their web pages,” said Tara Ricks, managing director of Joslin Rowe’s permanent-recruitment business.

However, most employers are simply trying to gain a more rounded view of potential new hires, she added, rather than catch them out. “It’s important to remember that firms want rounded individuals and people who’ll fit in, and social-networking sites can be a good source of information about someone’s interests.”

Nevertheless, The Times newspaper reported one employer that admitted to turning down one applicant after learning that he had used Facebook to criticise previous employers and discuss private company information.

It also cited a US-based consultant who turned down an applicant after reading on Facebook that his interests included, “Smokin’ blunts with the homies” and, “Shooting caps into whitie”.

The survey coincides with a warning from credit-reference agency Equifax that identity thieves are using information from social-networking sites to target individuals. Many particularly naïve users even post their address and birthday.

Equifax recommends that users avoid putting too much personal information online – not just addresses, but date of birth and mother’s maiden name, which are both frequently used for verification, and dates of holidays – especially if the profile also contains a personal photo and address.

Top ten social-networking turn-offs for recruiters

1. References to drug abuse;

2. Extreme or intolerant views, especially racism and sexism;

3. Criminal activity;

4. Evidence of excessive alcohol consumption;

5. Inappropriate pictures, including nudity;

6. Foul language;

7. Links to unsuitable websites;

8. Lewd jokes;

9. Silly e-mail addresses;

10. Membership of pointless or silly groups.