A study carried out by computing giant Microsoft found that 64 per cent of HR managers believe in assessing an applicant's online reputation as part of the selection process, while 41 per cent have already turned down a candidate because of their profile.
In addition, the poll showed that 37 per cent of job applicants think it is their responsibility to safeguard their online image when using social networking platforms or blogs.
Cliff Evans, head of privacy and security at Microsoft UK, said that candidates need to realise the importance of having a good online reputation when searching for a new job.
'Reputation and information sharing as a privacy issue should be a major concern for individuals, particularly in a challenging economic environment where jobs are scarce,' he commented.
Earlier this month, employment expert Richard Doherty predicted that an increasing number of companies will start to use social networking as part of their recruitment process.
In addition, the poll showed that 37 per cent of job applicants think it is their responsibility to safeguard their online image when using social networking platforms or blogs.
Cliff Evans, head of privacy and security at Microsoft UK, said that candidates need to realise the importance of having a good online reputation when searching for a new job.
'Reputation and information sharing as a privacy issue should be a major concern for individuals, particularly in a challenging economic environment where jobs are scarce,' he commented.
Earlier this month, employment expert Richard Doherty predicted that an increasing number of companies will start to use social networking as part of their recruitment process.
