Almost 40pc of technology firms check out potential employees’ profiles on social media sites like Facebook and LinkedIn, according to new research.
The survey, by Eurocom Worldwide and Dublin-based Simpson Financial & Technology PR, which was conducted during January and February 2010, surveyed 286 senior-level executives in technology companies mostly across the European region. Some 13pc of respondents were from Irish technology firms.
“Those party or holiday photos that seemed such a good idea at the time to post on social media websites could damage your career prospects,” commented Ronnie Simpson of Simpson FT PR.
“Some 37pc of tech firms examine social media profiles to determine potential employees’ suitability for the job.”
Corporate blogs
The Eurocom Worldwide survey finds that just over a third (37pc) of technology companies surveyed have a corporate blog, only slightly more than last year (33pc).
The major barrier to corporate blogging is that it is too time consuming, cited by 39pc of respondents. Almost a third (32pc) don’t see the value of it.
“It is surprising that 60pc of technology companies do not blog,” said Pat Phelan of Cubic Telecom, who was recently named as Irish Blogger of the Year.
“Despite the significant time commitment, it is a highly cost-effective way of generating global profile and website traffic.”
Why blog?
According to the survey, 56pc of those who blog do so to improve interaction with customers. More than a third (34pc) blog to raise profile and thought leadership.
“While corporate management recognises the importance of engaging with customers and the wider public, it is interesting that so many do not see the value of corporate blogging,” commented Mads Christensen, network director, Eurocom Worldwide.
“We think this may be mainly due to the time commitment many fear is needed.”
Despite a mixed reaction to blogging, almost half (45pc) of those surveyed expect to increase their budget on social media over the next 12 months.
Just over a third (35pc) of companies already have a page on Facebook. Some 23pc have a YouTube presence. Almost three-quarters (73pc) network on LinkedIn with almost one in five (19pc) on Plaxo.
By John Kennedy
Photo: Pat Phelan of Cubic Telecom
