Examining the Pros and Cons: Should Companies Access Prospective Employees' Social Media Profiles?

Examining the Pros and Cons: Should Companies Access Prospective Employees' Social Media Profiles?
Student Name
College/Department Name, Trident University International
Course Number: Course Name
Professor Name
Date
Examining the Pros and Cons: Should Companies Access Prospective Employees' Social Media Profiles?
In the contemporary era characterized by the influence of digital technologies, social media is emerging as an intensive phenomenon deeply incorporated within human existence. Social media has transcended its initial purpose of connecting individuals across geographical boundaries and evolved into an indispensable platform for personal expression and the dissemination of information (Ewing et al., 2019). Consequently, this sweeping digital transformation has generated a controversial debate revolving around recruitment and employment: whether society should grant organizations access to the social media profiles of prospective employees or not. This case assignment aims to present arguments from both sides of the debate without revealing personal bias to foster an open discussion on this contentious issue.
Siding with Companies Looking at Prospective Employees' Social Media Profiles
Gaining Insight into Candidate's Character
Reviewing social media profiles can present crucial insights into a candidate's values and behavior outside of a professional setting. Monitoring employees' social media platforms allows employers to assess if the candidate's online presence aligns with the company's culture and values. For example, employers can identify whether candidates engage in discriminatory behavior or hold offensive views on social media. This information is crucial for maintaining a safe and inclusive work environment. According to a study conducted in 2013 by CareerBuilder, 57% of employers who reviewed social media profiles found content that led them not to hire a candidate due to discriminatory remarks or inappropriate behavior (Hartwell & Eggli, 2020). Social media profiling can provide valuable insights into an applicant's professionalism and help employers evaluate their fit within the organization's culture and values.
Verifying Candidate's Qualifications
Social media profiles can offer additional evidence to verify the qualifications and experiences listed on a candidate's resume. By closely following up on their workers' social media sites, employers can assess the authenticity of claims and evaluate the consistency of information provided. For instance, employers can look for projects or achievements shared on social media that support the candidate's claims of skills or expertise. A Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) survey found that 70% of hiring teams believed social media screening helped them identify positive traits in candidates that supported their qualifications (Albert et al., 2019). Furthermore, employers can gauge candidates' industry involvement by examining their social media presence, including participation in professional groups, conferences, or relevant discussions.
Ensuring Cultural Fit
Understanding a candidate's social media presence can help evaluate their potential fit within the organization's culture. By reviewing their interests, af...