Social Media Dos and Don’ts

Social media can be a useful tool to connect with friends and family, but it also plays a role in professional settings. What you post online can help or hurt your reputation — and your future career opportunities.

Jen Hartmann, director of strategic public relations and enterprise social media for John Deere, shares why it’s important to think twice about what you post on social media. “In my role with John Deere, I’ve been the hiring manager for both entry-level and leadership positions,” she says. “I’ve made it standard practice to scan social media pages of anyone we’re considering for an interview, and I’ve seen it all.”

Hartmann offers this social media advice for any young person starting a career.

DO

• Establish a professional presence on LinkedIn. Yes, LinkedIn. “While it’s probably the last social platform you’re considering, it’s a huge plus for job seekers to have an updated, professional profile complete with work history, a recent bio, profile picture and relevant cover image,” Hartmann says.
• Remember that everything can live forever on the internet. “Screenshots of ‘disappearing’ social media content such as snaps, stories, DMs and TikToks can and do exist,” Hartmann says. “Be mindful of what future employers may see, and take caution in sharing content, even privately, that you wouldn’t want to see published publicly.”
• Be kind. Social media is designed to foster community and connect us with friends, family and people who share our interests. “Bullying, harassment, hateful or derogatory comments and outbursts aren’t going to win you points with potential employers,” Hartmann says. “In fact, bad behavior online will likely exclude you from opportunities you might have otherwise had based on experience alone.”

DON’T

• Don’t engage with cyberbullies and individuals seeking to spread misinformation. “Replying to harassing or disturbing messages is not likely to end well and is likely to upset you,” Hartmann says. “Instead of responding, talk to an adult you trust about the situation.”
• Don’t post inappropriate photos. Think about the implications of posting certain photos. “Before you post photos, ask yourself if it’s something you would want a teacher or potential employer to see,” Hartmann says. “If it gives you pause, don’t post it. You don’t want an inappropriate post to be the reason for getting in trouble or losing out on an incredible opportunity.”
• Don’t post without thinking of potential consequences. A first reaction to a situation can be more emotional than factual or reasonable. “When you feel passionate about posting something or have the urge to respond to a controversial post, implement the five-minute rule,” Hartmann says. “Write your post out but wait five minutes before you hit ‘send.’ After five minutes, decide whether you still feel it’s a good idea to post it.”