It’s a question that comes up again and again: do employers really check social media when hiring? The short answer is yes, they do.

But here’s the part most people don’t realise. That can actually work in your favour.

As social media becomes a natural extension of professional life, it’s giving job seekers more ways to stand out, connect and show personality than ever before.

The truth behind social media screening

According to recent research by StandOut CV, 91% of employers now use social media at some stage of their hiring process. It’s no longer a rare or intrusive check; it’s part of how recruiters get a better picture of a candidate’s professional fit.

Even better news? 59% of job seekers said that social media helped them land their last role, and 73% of millennials found their most recent job through a social media platform. That’s proof that your online presence isn’t just being watched; it’s working for you when it reflects the real you.

Why employers look, and why that can help you

Today’s recruiters and hiring teams aren’t scrolling your feed to catch you out. They’re carrying out checks to understand how you might fit within their organisation’s culture, values and environment.

A professional social media check helps employers see:

  • Whether your online presence reflects a professional or social tone
  • If your interests or communication style align with their company culture
  • Whether there are any potential risks that could impact reputation, trust or safeguarding

Ultimately, employers are looking for authentic people who fit their team, not for reasons to exclude candidates.

A Robert Walters UK study found that 64% of employers view a candidate’s professional social network profile before hiring. That means platforms like LinkedIn, X (Twitter) and even Instagram are becoming part of the first impression..

The UK legal landscape: what’s allowed and what’s not

While it’s common practice to review public information, there are still clear rules around fair and ethical hiring. Employers must ensure any social-media insights are relevant to the role and used responsibly.

You can find more on this in UK Government guidance on employment checks, which outlines what employers can legally review and how data privacy must be protected.

So if you’re in the UK, rest assured: checks are lawful, but also regulated.

What this means for you as a job seeker

Knowing that employers are checking isn’t something to stress about; it’s something to prepare for confidently.
Here’s what’s worth keeping in mind:

  • Awareness creates control – understanding your online presence helps you shape your narrative.

  • Visibility drives opportunity – being discoverable for the right reasons can open unexpected doors.

  • Professional identity matters – how you present yourself online can reinforce your CV rather than replace it.

You don’t have to be a social media expert to make it work for you. You just need clarity on what your public footprint looks like.

How right2socials can help

At right2socials, we help individuals see what employers see, providing a professional Social Media Check that mirrors the same process used by hiring teams.

Our reports are confidential, independent and created in partnership with SP Index, the UK’s leader in online background screening.
You’ll gain insight into your online footprint, helping you understand how your profiles appear publicly and ensuring you go into every opportunity informed and confident.

Awareness is power, and confidence comes from clarity.

The takeaway

Yes, employers do check social media, but that’s not something to fear. It’s your chance to own your digital story, to show who you are and to stand out for the right reasons.

Ready to see what they see?

Get your Social Media Check today and start your next career move with confidence.