Common social media mistakes for job seekers

Are you looking for a new role? Social media can play a vital role in your job search, helping expose you to new opportunities and showcase your skills and experience to potential employers. When used strategically, it can support your career goals and improve your visibility in a competitive job market.

Many recruiters now review candidates’ online profiles as part of the hiring process, meaning what you share — and how you present yourself — matters more than ever. While social media can strengthen your personal brand and professional reputation, using it incorrectly can also damage your chances of securing an interview or progressing to the next stage.

So, what social media mistakes should you avoid when searching for a new role?

Social media mistakes to avoid

Not aligning your resume and online profiles

It’s important to ensure your resume and social media profiles are aligned. Inconsistencies can suggest a lack of attention to detail and may raise doubts about your credibility. For recruiters, conflicting information can also make it harder to understand your career progression. In some cases, inconsistencies can create the impression that you have something to hide.

Posting inappropriate content

It’s easy to assume your social media posts are private, but this is rarely the case. If you wouldn’t be comfortable with a hiring manager seeing something, it’s best not to post it at all.

Employers often search online profiles when assessing candidates, so take extra care with how you present yourself. Ensure your profile photo is professional and be mindful of the accounts you follow and interact with publicly.

If you’re concerned about past posts, review your social media history and remove anything that no longer reflects who you are professionally today.

Posting during work hours

If a potential employer sees you posting on social media at times when you are expected to be working, it can raise red flags. It may prompt questions about your focus, productivity and level of commitment, particularly in roles that require trust and autonomy.

Being negative

It’s best to keep your social media presence positive and professional. Posts that criticise others can raise concerns about your character and judgement. In some cases, they may even create legal or privacy issues that employers would prefer to avoid.

Instead, use social media to build a positive personal brand. Share what inspires you, highlight your interests and achievements, and take opportunities to acknowledge and celebrate the success of others where appropriate.

Don’t connect until you are offered the job

It’s sensible to review publicly available information about a potential employer as part of your interview preparation. However, you should avoid connecting with hiring managers on social media before you have been offered a role. Reaching out too early can come across as presumptuous and may leave a negative impression during an already competitive process.

Not having a presence at all

It can be tempting to avoid social media altogether to eliminate the risk of making a negative impression. However, having no online presence at all can also raise questions for employers. It may suggest a lack of engagement and means you miss out on the many benefits social media offers, including the ability to showcase your achievements, share industry insights and connect with like-minded professionals.

Article References

Managing your online presence during a job search can be tricky, especially when employers are increasingly reviewing candidates beyond their resumes. If you’re unsure how to present yourself professionally across both your application and your social media profiles, getting expert guidance can make a real difference.

Are you looking for a new career? Selection Criteria Writers can help. We are pleased to offer various services, including our LinkedIn profile writing service and selection criteria writing service.

Article References

Hays (n.d) ‘Social media mistakes to avoid when job searching’, Hays, accessed 2 February 2025.

Trojan Recruitment (n.d) ‘8 Social Media Fails That Could Cost Your Dream Job’, Trojan Recruitment, accessed 2 February 2025.