Think twice before you post that next picture — it says more about you than you think
If you're in the market for a new job, you should already be aware that future employers are perusing your Facebook profile. Some employers are even demanding applicants supply their Facebook passwords. But does that kind of information really help human resources determine whether or not you're job worthy? According to a new study from Northeastern Illinois University, the University of Evansville and Auburn University, the answer is a resounding yes.
The study involved a group of three raters — one university professor and two students — who were tasked at looking through the Facebook profiles of 56 students with jobs. Using just the information in their profiles, including pictures and comments, the raters gave each of the 56 students scores in areas such as friendliness and intellectual curiosity.
Based on the profiles, it was found that there was a strong correlation between an employee's job success and certain traits such as conscientiousness and agreeability. Specifically, those with the most friends were seen most favorably, as were those who traveled and had a wide array of interests.
Surprisingly, those who posted pictures of themselves partying were actually seen in an overall favorable light — it showed they were more extroverted. Still, if your Facebook profile is filled with pictures of you doing keg stands, you might want spend a few minutes adjusting your profile's privacy settings before submitting that next job application. Especially since photos deleted off Facebook were found to be viewable for up to 3 years afterward.
This article was written by Fox Van Allen and originally appeared on Tecca
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