An apparently well-suited candidate missed out on a senior banking sales role this week. On paper he looked like the perfect match many years of management experience in strong teams at tier 1 banks. On the phone he was charming, confident and enthusiastic. Sadly he didn't even get as far as an interview. You will have heard many tales about the impact of social media on employment. In effect the term "social media" refers to anything you post on the internet that has your name on it. That includes your website, blog, Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn and anything else that can be accessed online. The internet is a wonderful chance to market yourself. You can position yourself as an industry expert and form influential networks. The key to it is all in the "social" element.
Social Skills
In the real world social skills revolve around consistency, openness, humour, helpfulness, loyalty and honesty. If people find that you are consistently the same person that they liked the first time they met you then friendships form. In the real world you have the chance to be a slightly different version of you with the rugby team than you would be in the office. Actually it's quite important. Online the same rules apply; be formal on LinkedIn (and make sure your CV matches your online work history), let your hair down on Facebook, be deep on your blog and be yourself on Twitter. However, online there is always the danger that you get it wrong and that's particularly dangerous if you have different media feeding into each other. Blow the consistency and it all falls apart.
Our candidate was looking so good this week until we found him on Twitter, where his unacceptable views made him immediately unsuitable for the potential role. In an industry like banking recruitment which is tarnished by the unethical practices of the few it is vital to remain vigilant. Social media doesn't mean our role is replaced but it does mean we have more tools to do it properly and we have to do whatever it takes to make sure the best candidates come through.
There will be another blog next month. In the meantime please follow us on Twitter and look out for our #bankingjobs hashtag.