When it comes to securing our ideal job, one thing is for certain – first impressions count. With scores of skilled and talented graduates applying for the same role, employers may only have a matter of minutes to dedicate to each application.
As a result it’s crucial that graduates portray themselves in their best light the first time around. However, while many graduates will be focusing their attention on a well-polished CV or the perfect interview outfit to meet this end, they may have neglected one crucial area that often comes under employers’ radar – social media.
According to the results of new research, poor spelling and grammar on social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter is a definite ‘no-no’ when it comes to the employers’ hunt for the perfect candidate.
Examining the reactions of over 110 to social media profiles which contained poor grammar and ‘text speak’ such as ‘LOL’ (laugh out loud) and ‘m8’ (mate), the study from the University of the West of Scotland (UWS), revealed that employers had less than favourable responses.
Using incorrect language could deem candidates less employable
Commenting on the study findings, Graham Scott, from UWS’s school of social sciences, argued that poorly worded social media profiles could be harming candidates’ employment prospects. He said:
“Employers are looking to different sources of information to distinguish candidates from one another.
“One easily accessible area is the internet and in particular social networking sites as they have been shown to accurately reflect individuals’ offline personas.
“So if you make spelling mistakes or use ‘text speak’ online you’ll be viewed as less intelligent and employable than if you use correct language.”
He went on argue that at a time when many candidates hold degrees, employers are constantly looking for ways to differentiate between candidates applying for graduate level jobs. This includes examining social media profiles.
Social media increasingly becoming a screening tool
90% of the 300 professionals questioned as a part of a recent study, revealed that they use candidates’ online profiles to help them reach a decision on which they were going to hire.
Do you feel that your social media profile is ‘employer ready’? Has your social media profile had a bearing on your job prospects?
