by Joan Huston

Created on: February 28, 2010   Last Updated: December 13, 2010

Facebook is a valuable tool people can use to stay in touch with friends, share pictures, and organize events.  Unfortunately, many Facebook users tend to forget that the majority of the information they allow on their Facebook page can find its way into the public realm.  The ability of outside viewers to have access to your personal information is why it is important to ensure that your Facebook page and profile look professional.

The majority of college students are on the Facebook bandwagon and welcome this type of social networking with open arms.  Facebook is a great way to invite all of your friends to the beer pong tournament at your house next weekend and it is an even better way to share all of the pictures from your party.  Unfortunately, college does not last forever and graduate school only extends it for two more years.  Eventually there will be a day when you will regret your friend posting that picture of you passed out in a kiddie pool full of strawberry Jello.

There comes a time in everyone’s life when they have to go out and try to sell himself or herself to a potential employer.  Hiring directors are technically savvy and know that the simple act of a Google search can help them learn a lot about a job candidate.  While you may look perfect on paper, a negative image presented via your Facebook page may prevent you from getting an interview.  Inappropriate pictures, comments, and other information on your Facebook page can easily find their way into the hands of others and can impact your ability to advance in life or your career.  In a recent case in Pennsylvania, a college professor joked on her Facebook page about “hiring a discreet hit man.”  She was instantly suspended and is now facing serious disciplinary action because of her unprofessional conduct on Facebook.

Have a great time in college and don’t continually stress out about what is on your Facebook page, but be mindful that it could someday impact you.  When you graduate or decide to change jobs, be sure to take a hard look at the persona you project through your Facebook page.  Remove the pictures from your best friend’s bachelor party and erase any pictures or comments that have to do with drinking, partying, illegal activity, sex, or how much you hate your current job.  After you spruce up your Facebook page, search for yourself through Google and other search engines to see what other information may be lurking about you on the Internet.

Revamping your resume and writing the perfect cover letter are only a small portion of what it takes to advance yourself in this world.  Information that is put out on the Internet can easily find its way into the hands of current and potential employers, your family, and those who may have ill intentions towards you.  It is imperative that you protect yourself by maintaining a professional Facebook page.

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