By Aimee Cartwright

You’ve taken a crucial step for your career by getting your Social Media Check. It’s time to use it to your advantage. Whether your check came back completely clean or there are some flagged areas for your review, now that you have taken control, what you do next is key.

Now, you are empowered to refine your online identity, strengthen your personal brand, and ensure you’re presenting yourself in the best possible light to establishments and employers 🌠

Overview of Social Media Checks

Employers and universities checking applicants’ social media is nothing new. As a student, you may feel that you are powerless in this situation. We’re here to tell you you’re not!

Social Media Checks enable you to take ownership of your Social Digital Record – how you’re perceived online – and use this information to make your university and job applications stand out.

In other words, you can advertise yourself as a proactive and prized applicant who boasts a clean Social Digital Record (SDR) – your online check history. Controlling your online presence serves as confirmation to employers that your online behaviours fit safely within their values, policies, and ethos.

How Your Social Digital Record Benefits You

Employability

In this hyper-competitive job market, every time you apply for a graduate job, there are an average of 139 applicants competing for the same opportunity (1). Standing out from the crowd is crucial for your employability.

Social Media Checks help you stand out by demonstrating that you are committed to taking control of employers’ perceptions of you. This dedication to your career does not go unnoticed by hiring managers 💼

Personal Brand

Don’t underestimate the power of a positive, professional Social Digital Record for networking opportunities, credibility, and a strong reputation.

Social Media Checks allow you to identify any content that could stand in the way of a career opportunity, and managing this content allows you to showcase a personal brand you are proud of.

Industry Standards

The background screening industry is advancing rapidly, and many industries are witnessing changes to their vetting requirements. In both Education and Healthcare, online background checks are now mandatory.

By accessing your SDR, you are staying ahead and maximising your career prospects in anticipation for industry changes.

Your Results Are In. What Now?

The result of your Social Media Check will speak for itself. If any content has been highlighted for your review, it’s time to make an informed decision on how to manage this. If you don’t take action, be aware that a red-lighted Social Media Check will be a red flag for employers.

If your check comes back green-lighted, you’re ready to pass this information onto employers and universities. As part of their consideration of your application, they will see that your online identity is risk-free; a significant advantage in a society shaped by cancel culture.

Conclusion

Your Social Digital Record isn’t just a one-time report. It keeps your socials in check and your future on track.

Regardless of your results, there is always action that you can take to stand out amongst the crowd and enhance your employability 📈