Why Employers and Recruiters Are Looking at Your Old Tweets

Social media is a double-edged sword. The same platforms that allow us to connect with friends and share life updates also create a permanent public record of our thoughts and opinions. As a career-focused professional, I've seen this issue from both sides. I regularly audit my own Twitter history to keep my brand consistent. One of the most efficient ways to do this is to delete tweets in bulk, especially those that no longer reflect who I am or what I stand for.

In this article, I'll explain why your old tweets matter, how employers judge what they find, and most importantly, what you can do to manage your digital footprint.

The Rise of Social Media Vetting

Online background checks are nothing new in the hiring process. For years, employers have googled candidates' names to browse their public online presence. But the scrutiny has intensified lately for two reasons:

• More personal data is searchable. Our tweets, Instagram posts, and Facebook histories allow recruiters immense visibility into our views, interests, and even affiliations.

• Public opinion matters more to brands. In today's hyper-connected world, an employee's controversial tweet or problematic behavior can ignite viral outrage and damage a company's reputation overnight.

In other words, employers now have more data—and more incentives—to vet candidates via social media. A 2020 survey of hiring decision makers, commissioned by Express Employment Professionals, revealed that 70% of respondents think companies should screen potential candidates’ social media profiles when considering them for a position, and 67% of them already are.

What Employers Look For in Tweets

So, what exactly do recruiters search for when reviewing your tweets? The content varies, but some common red flags include:

1. Offensive language or inappropriate jokes.

2. Controversial opinions on race, gender, or politics.

3. Signs of illegal drug use or excessive drinking.

4. Confidential information about previous employers.

5. Aggressive or combative tone overall.

The Tweet Life Cycle: Manage Yours Proactively

By now, it should be clear: like it or not, your tweets have consequences. So what's the solution?

Delete everything and stay silent online? That extreme isn't necessary or even possible for most young professionals.

In Summary: Tweet Smart, But Don't Obsess

Increased use of social media vetting during hiring is a sad intrusion on privacy. However, until the legal protection can be established, you need to control your digital footprint.

But do not go to the point of sanitizing all personality out of your tweets as a result of paranoia. Employers also desire to know about the candidates as human beings. Track the past, tweet better next time but above all, remember to stay in perspective.

I wish these best practices would assist you in achieving a balance between authenticity and career advancement in an era of social media that is made public. It is a slippery slope to be on, but by implementing a few self-audit controls, you can tweet without fear.