The job search is often about putting your best foot forward and making a positive impression. Before social media, that impression likely would have included analysis of a cover letter, a resume, and how you presented in an interview. However, with the addition of social media, there are more considerations and precautions to take when looking for a job. It's important to always remember, what you put online, will remain online and can be publicly accessible. So, before you decide to post a picture of yourself, think about if it's something you're comfortable with a potential employer seeing.

The Job Network published a list of common social media mistakes that can negatively affect your job search. Here we've highlighted a few that we find particularly important to note:

1. Badmouthing your current employer. When attempting to show you're a team player, or loyal employee, the last thing you would want a recruiter or hiring manager to see is you publicly complaining about your current employer. How will they be able to trust you wont do the same to them?

2. Discrimination. You may feel strongly about certain beliefs or viewpoints, but they may not be agreeable to everyone. Make sure that before you post anything opinion-related you assess if this could be conceived as potentially offensive. No one wants to hire someone who comes off as narrow-minded.

3. Rehashing your interview online. Even if you think that you hit it out of the park, resist the urge to post anything about the interview online. This could be seen by the interviewer and may reflect unfavorably on you.

While the above are important to keep in mind regarding your character, it's also important to consider what you'd want a potential employer to know about your health status. Many cancer patients going through treatment find solace and support through the use of social media. While seeking support systems through treatment is certainly important, keep in mind that this is a public space.

 Educate yourself on the privacy and security settings of the social media you are using and take care in how detailed you are in your postings. If you're interested in learning more on how your online presence can affect you, protections for yourself, and information about disclosing, take a look at the articles featured in Your Online Footprint section of our website.

Additionally, as part of our Balancing Work & Cancer webinar series, we will be holding a session on Disclosure, Privacy & Online Brand on Wednesday, August 10th at 1:00 pm ET/ 10:00 am PT. We'd love for you to join us! Register here.