Just read a super interesting commentary about how employers of newly-minted grads, and probably candidates across the board, are doing online searches and finding information about candidates that they posted on public meet-up websites and forums. Some are making decisions NOT to hire folks because of what they read.

Seems "the younger generations" have no qualms letting it all hang out, possibly sharing too much information in places that are  accessible to anyone with a computer. Adding to that, stuff seems to live in cyberspace forever, so a misguided decision to post information about drinking habits or other deep dark secrets will have a serious half-life.

Today I also read that Google collects information from the web and makes it easily searchable. Do not expect search engines to make decisions about what information should not be for public consumption. If it's out there it's fair game.

So employers are taking advantage of this availability of information when making decisions about new hires. Wow.  Buying a new interview suit seems almost silly to think about now.

Is this just another tool for ruling out a candidate when they both seem right for the job? You bet, especially in some industries which require security clearances and credit checks.

Bottom line when hiring staff, trusting your gut can be as good as research. Everybody has done something stupid and embarrassing in their lifetime. The confession can be cathartic. But the point here is that confession doesn't clear the slate so that you can move on. It follows you.

So word of advice, watch what you post in your online bios... especially if you ever plan to hold public office. Have a great weekend-- Beth