I heard something today that I thought I would never hear. It was seminar where an employment lawyer actually told recruiters it was ok to check a candidates social media profiles.
For years when I would talk to my HR clients I would hear that the legal department told them they couldn't have or use social media because it was an invasion of privacy. Seeing the candidates' pictures, lifestyle and information would have too big an influence on their hiring.
Personally I never understood this logic. Companies of all sizes make it very clear to candidates that choose to apply that there will be background and even drug tests. Is peeing in a cup any less an invasion of privacy than reading a Facebook page?
My feeling has always been that as long as the candidates knew up front what was going to be done than it was up to them to apply or go elsewhere. Similar to how background and drug checks are clearly marked on applications. It becomes the candidate's decision.
If they can't take the time to clean up their Facebook page and other social sites than they really don't want the job. Or if they aren't smart enough to realize they need to present a good image on their social sites than that tells you a lot about how they present themselves and you have to decide if you want them as an employee.
I think social media in recruiting is a natural fit. As long as all parties know what is happening than its fair for everyone.
What do you think, do you feel recruiters should be able to look at social profiles?
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