Facebook profile is not a resume

OK, this is no secret that recruiters screen a job applicant’s social media profiles. In fact, many employers too prefer making their final hiring decision based on candidate’s social media image. Now most of my HR folks, specially from the recruitment industry, are going to have a counter view on this but I believe candidate’s personal profiles like Facebook , Instagram , MySpace etc must be spared from stalking when important decisions like hiring are concerned.

Why do I think this way?… For apparent reasons that others would agree too

• Because my Facebook network is all about my personal life, friends, family and fun. It is my life out of office and I keep it casual and personal. My personality at work is surely different from what you see here.
• You will not find much reflection of my professional life on Facebook Yes, I am friends with my colleagues but I keep my interaction relaxed and friendly. I do not list my every work assignments, project and accomplishments here. Can’t help it… professional stuff and formal mannerism doesn’t interest my friends.
• I have LinkedIn & Twitter accounts and a blog too, specifically for professional interaction and networking. Check me there.
• Yes, I can restrict you by adjusting my privacy settings but if you come across any “Tagged” picture where I am parting with friends or enjoying a holiday with family, don’t assume that I am a laid back person who misses work for fun.
• There are things I read, like, comment and share with my social network (especially Facebook because I know my friends will like to see them too. Everything on my timeline isn’t an impression of my personality.

Work-Life balance is today’s workplace mantra but restricting your personal life just to appear presentable to employers, recruiters and business world hampers that balance. Screening a Facebook profile is no real judgment of someone’s ability in terms of responsibility, punctuality, adaptability and cultural suitability. Personal life is a totally different world and letting it be that way is the best we can do to maintain that balance.

So if you wish to check my Facebook profile out of curiosity or interest, I don’t mind. But if it’s about hiring and professional networking, let’s talk and you will know me better.