by Edgar Frost

Created on: September 07, 2008   Last Updated: November 19, 2011

Think of your last job interview. If you're like most people, you made sure you looked professional, and you put your best foot forward in the interview. Do you always dress like you did for your interview? Are you always that polite and professional? If you're like most people, the answer is a resounding no. During an interview, you weren't acting yourself, you were acting like the best version of yourself. Employers know this and may decide to look outside the sterile environment of the job interview.

If you have a Myspace page or have ever looked at a Myspace page, think of some of the profiles you have seen. I have seen profiles where individuals flaunt their drug use, display pictures of their drunken antics, and share information about their illegal activities. I'm not saying these examples are characteristic of the typical Myspace page, but it isn't difficult to find a Myspace user who is bragging about their questionable behavior.

Employees are representatives of the company. If their behavior is counter to what is expected, then it is possibly detrimental to the corporation's image. For new hires, I think viewing online profiles is not only permissible, I think it's the smart thing to do. For existing employees, what is found in online profiles should be balanced with the employees over-all work record. After all, should a few embarrassing pictures negate an exemplary 10 year work record?

Some of you might still not be convinced that an online profile should have anything to do with employment decisions. I would agree that it might not be relevant in some cases, but I would also argue that it is highly relevant in other circumstances. What about people who brag about and flaunt their drug use? Should they be air traffic controllers, bus drivers, or surgeons with no questions asked? If you're anything like me, you would be nervous if your bus driver was under the influence. In many cases more than profits and reputation may be at stake. Lives could be jeopardized or changed forever.

Employees should have the right to seek and use any information that is publicly available, such as Myspace profiles, Facebook profiles, or YouTube videos. If anyone in the world can view these page and make judgments about the individuals and their behavior, then why shouldn't an employer who has a great deal to lose?

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