A reputation management expert warns that social media mistakes can cost you job opportunities. With employers screening candidates online, your posts could make or break your career. Companies increasingly view employees as brand representatives, and inappropriate online behavior can be a red flag.
Here’s what to avoid posting if you want to maintain a professional image and protect your career.
1. Drunken Escapades & Risqué Content
A Google search of your name—including LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, X, and TikTok—is now common in hiring practices. Employers scan for inappropriate behavior, offensive remarks, or anything that suggests you might be a liability.
Posting wild party pictures, excessive drinking, or risqué content—especially if you’re actively promoting an OnlyFans or similar platform—can cost you opportunities. A well-known example is a primary school teacher who was dismissed after promoting her OnlyFans content, raising concerns about professionalism and employer reputation.
If you’re on sick leave but post about partying or traveling, it could also backfire, affecting HR investigations or absenteeism policies.
2. Bad-Mouthing Your Boss, Colleagues, or Company
Publicly complaining about your employer, colleagues, or manager can make you look unprofessional and disloyal. Even if your criticism is justified, airing workplace grievances online can damage your reputation.
An example is the Greggs worker who was dismissed after posting behind-the-scenes TikTok videos revealing food waste at their London branch. While some saw it as whistleblowing, the company took action to protect its brand and operational integrity.
If you have workplace concerns, raise them through internal channels—not social media.
3. Controversial Opinions & ‘Hot Takes’
Social media thrives on strong opinions, but voicing controversial takes on race, gender, politics, or celebrities can harm your professional image.
Companies don’t want to be associated with employees who post racially insensitive, sexist, homophobic, or transphobic content. Even if your post is meant as satire, recruiters may see it differently.
Before posting, ask yourself: Is this worth risking my career?
4. Oversharing on LinkedIn
LinkedIn is a professional platform, but oversharing personal struggles, workplace conflicts, or exaggerated success stories can make you look unprofessional.
While authenticity is valued, avoid:
- Dramatic resignation stories that make you seem impulsive
- Complaints about past employers that could deter future ones
- Highly personal struggles that may be better suited for close friends
- Over-the-top motivational posts that feel forced or inauthentic
Your goal on LinkedIn should be to establish credibility, share industry insights, and build a strong professional network. Avoid being a “LinkedIn Cringer” who posts aspirational but empty content.
5. Engaging in Online Arguments & Cyberbullying
From heated football debates on X to snarky TikTok comments, aggressive online behavior can damage your reputation.
What you see as harmless banter, recruiters may see as hostility. Even if you’re right, losing your temper online can make you seem unprofessional or a potential HR risk.
If someone annoys you online, it’s best to ignore, mute, or block rather than engage in a public spat.
6. Inappropriate TikTok or X Posts
Short-form platforms like TikTok and X encourage viral content, but be mindful of what you share.
- TikTok trends: Filming at work, making fun of customers, or sharing confidential information can cost you your job.
- X posts: Old tweets have resurfaced and led to people being fired or “canceled.” Audit your past posts and delete anything that could be considered offensive.
What You Should Post Instead
Instead of risky content, focus on posts that build a strong online presence:
- Industry insights and thought leadership – Share your knowledge and expertise.
- Professional achievements and milestones – Celebrate career wins and contributions.
- Positive interactions with colleagues or industry leaders – Engage constructively.
- Helpful and insightful discussions – Add value to online conversations.
Before posting, ask yourself: Would I be comfortable with a future employer seeing this? If the answer is no, leave it unpublished.
Final Thought
Your social media activity can be an asset or a liability. By being mindful of what you post, you can protect your reputation, improve your career prospects, and maintain a professional image online.
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