You probably wouldn’t consider yourself a cyber bully. But have you ever said anything snarky on the web about a coworker, company, or stranger? This week a congressional staffer learned just how brutal the World Wide Web can be, especially in the political sphere. A comment she posted on Facebook and probably only intended to be seen by a few sympathetic friends quickly went viral, and ended in her resignation.
It’s a good time to ask yourself if you’d be comfortable with every off-hand comment you made on your Facebook wall being published on your resume.
I recently wrote about a LinkedIn commenter who called me an idiot for posting a link to an article (the article, ironically, was about people search websites and how your contact information can end up online without your knowing it). His comments were hurtful, questioning my professional credentials and abilities. But I didn’t take them personally because I don’t know him personally (and he clearly doesn’t know me). But, it makes one wonder if a person will say that on a LinkedIn group geared to cleared recruiters and job seekers, what would he say on his personal Facebook wall?
The Tweet Heard ‘Round the World
As continuous monitoring of security clearance holders is debated, it’s a good time to review your social media profiles and make sure you’d be comfortable with Uncle Sam reading every post. We’ve been reminded over recent months that working for the government is a privilege, not a right – security clearance holders, in particular, are not afforded the same liberties of other employees. Private sector workers have a freedom to speak out in ways those who represent the government cannot.
Your professional reputation is incredibly valuable. And whether you like it or not, every statement you make online contributes to that reputation. Even the ones you intend to just be among friends. Every post is just one share away from being seen by your employer or a recruiter. That’s just one of the reasons why I post less on social media sites the older I get – it’s not that I don’t see the value in those channels, it’s just that I use them for a more specific purpose.
Bottom Line – Think Before you Comment
Do yourself a favor and think seriously about every comment you make online. If it could be deemed offensive or abusive, don’t post it. If it’s too late, offer a quick apology and consider deleting it (although nothing can ever truly be erased from the web). Most of us don’t work in communications, and most of us won’t be called to resign because of one stupid statement. But security clearance holders beware – it’s not just your friends watching your online interactions these days, it’s also Uncle Sam.
If you’re past the teen years the idea of bullying probably seems ridiculous. But if you’re making hurtful comments, and particularly if you show a pattern of such behavior, be prepared to be labeled. The snark and sarcasm may play well to your friends, but it won’t do the same for companies and recruiters, and it certainly won’t get you any job offers.
