Police department utilizes Facebook on prospective employees

Posted: Sep 20, 2012 10:43 PM by Connie Tran, KSBY News

The social networking website, Facebook, is a major part of many of many people's lives, as profiles are checked sometimes multiple times a day. But, it seems like when it comes to applying for a job, friends are not the only ones scoping out your Facebook page.

"As social media has grown, is that this is a really critical component, and you really gotta make sure that you're doing this," said San Luis Obispo Police Captain Christopher Staley on Thursday.

He's referring to checking, double checking, and triple checking your Facebook for anything that could be detrimental to the police department, if you ever plan on applying for a position.

Staley said, "primarily what we're looking for is mostly is if there's illegal-type behavior."

Capt. Staley said hopeful applicants vying for an officer position have to show a lot more than just interest for the job.

"We will usually have the person share with us their Facebook while they're here, while their account is active, and have an opportunity to see the type of material that is on their Facebook page," said Staley.

Will Bruce, EOPS Director at Hancock College said more and more employers are enforcing the same thing come interview time. He said he advises students to be cautious about things they post on their Facebook profiles.

"When they do end up getting that killer job and they realize, 'oh shoot', what did I post 10 years ago, because it's gonna come back and haunt you, it will," said Bruce.

So, here are some Facebook do's and don'ts, according to Bruce.

Do, he said, post things that are professional. But, don't, he said, ran't and rave on Facebook when you're angry.

"If you use it the right way, it can enhance your life and it can enhance your professional career," said Bruce.

Capt. Staley said there have been people who have been rejected of a job at the department, because of illegal behavior seen on Facebook.

He said, "it hasn't been an overwhelming problem... but it has happened."

The Santa Maria Police Department said on Thursday that they utilize Facebook in the same way, when it comes to doing background checks on applicants.