From the HR Support Center: Is There a Downside To Screening The Social Media Accounts of Job Candidates?

From the HR Support Center: Is There a Downside To Screening The Social Media Accounts of Job Candidates?

There can be downsides, yes. First, screening social media accounts creates extra risk. You could be exposed to information about a candidate’s protected classes, such as their race, age, or religion. If your ultimate hiring decision were challenged, you would need to prove that those characteristics were not a factor in your decision.

Second, it takes extra time and adds an unnecessary cost to your hiring process. The questions you ask on the application and during the interview should provide you with sufficient information to determine whether a candidate is the right person for the job. If you’re not getting the information you need, we would recommend reevaluating the questions you’re asking during the hiring process.

The HR Support Center is a service offered to Payroll Partners clients, and provides access to exclusive, industry-leading HR tools and resources, for just a few dollars a month. From employee handbooks, job descriptions and other commonly used HR documents, to up-to-the-minute law alerts, easy-to-understand state and federal law libraries, and unique training videos, the HR Support Center will help you effectively manage your HR compliance and employee relations needs.

Original content by the © HR Support Center. All Rights Reserved. This information is provided with the understanding that Payroll Partners is not rendering legal, human resources, or other professional advice or service. Professional advice on specific issues should be sought from a lawyer, HR consultant or other professional.

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