Are nosy employers breaking the law?

Prepping prior to interviewing is important – identifying something unique on a potential employees’ CV will allow you to garner information that could boost their chances, it puts them at ease and displays interest.

However, new research from totaljobs has found that three-quarters of employers admit to checking their candidate’s social media as part of ‘interview preparation’ and 70% spend less than an hour preparing for an interview.

Just 36% of candidates expect their social media to be screened, although a recent Yougov study found that one in five employers have rejected a candidate because of their online posts. However, the proposed Data Protection Bill will give candidates the right to request that social media companies delete personal information held about them, potentially improving their chances of landing a desired role.

Potential changes will force internet companies – social media sites amongst them – to be more responsible about how they collect and utilise data, including photos and status posts. If they don’t, they risk a £17million fine. In addition, employers and recruiters that use Facebook, Twitter and other social media to check on potential job candidates could be breaking European law in future - and could also face a hefty fine, equating to 4% of global turnover.