EMILY SCHMITT KNIGHTLIFE EDITOR
The United States’ use of social networks surpassed e-mail this month, according to Nielsen Media Research. Nielson found that one in every 11 online minutes is spent on a social networking Web site.
Nielsen reported more than two-thirds of the world’s online population now uses social networks and blogs.
As these Web sites’ popularity continues to increase, social network users need to be aware of how they portray themselves on the Internet, web developer/manager Chris Knudson said.
“One of the things that worries me is the fact that people don’t think twice about putting their information out there through social media,” he said.
Knudson advises students to be careful with their online personality.
“Most employers know that students drink, that they party,” he said. “They want to see if you have the judgment to not make things like that public. They want to see if students are aware of what they’re doing and how it affects them.”
Penni Pier, associate professor of communication arts, agreed that employers are using these Web sites to get to know applicants.
“When students are posting things, they want to make sure not to post anything they don’t want employers to see,” Pier said.
She said employers are able to access information that they cannot ask for in an interview, such as past employment, home address, relationship status and interests.
Although this information should not affect employment, it could sway an employer’s opinion of an applicant.
“Especially in tough academic times, they might eliminate those they don’t want to interview,” Pier said.
Knudtson also said students need to be more cautious in the current economy as they prepare to apply for internships and jobs.
“They’re looking for the best employees possible. And especially right now, in this market, you don’t want anything to be a red flag,” he said.
“You want to make sure that everything about you is polished and professional when you’re looking for a job.”