possibility…

… let’s talk about “readers.” I’m referring to potential employers reading about job applicants on the Internet–specifically in social networking environments. Facebook and MySpace are popular for online socializing and sharing perhaps more information than you might in a “job interview story.” I’ve heard of people posting online that they lie in job interviews. And I’ve personally seen postings that describe party adventures in language that could make potential interviewers gasp.

Censorship you say? I’m not sure … maybe just common sense in the world we live in today. Many people, including some recruiters, believe that checking social networking sites to research applicants is unethical. But there are no hard and fast rules and if you’re using language or sharing information that might jeopardize the job of your dreams, you might want to think twice.

But don’t discount the value on sharing carefully considered and appropriate views and expertise online. Personal websites and blogs that profile your strengths, training, and experience are a great idea. In a world where “personal branding” is hot, think about exactly what you want to become known for and write about it.

If you’re self-employed (or want to be one day), caution and planning in building your online presence holds true for you as well. Potential clients and/or business partners may be just as vigilant as potential employers in conducting their research before accepting your word.