Can photos from high school affect job prospects?

I've been thinking about how my digital footprint could impact my future job searches. Can employers use social media images from high school to judge potential employees, and what kind of effect could these photos have on hiring decisions?

In our increasingly digital world, yes, employers can and often do use social media to screen potential employees, and this can include viewing photos from high school. A recent survey by CareerBuilder found that 70% of employers use social media to screen candidates before hiring, indicating that social media's impact on job hunting is not negligible.

The effect that these photos may have on hiring decisions can vary widely, based on the nature of the images and the culture of the company where you're applying. If the photos show behavior that is considered unprofessional or inappropriate, they could potentially decrease the likelihood of you being hired. Examples of such behaviors could range from underage drinking to posting offensive or hateful content.

On the other hand, photos showing positive personal traits or values can contribute to a constructive impression. For instance, pictures of you participating in community service or leading a school club can reinforce your qualifications and character for potential employers—especially if they align with the values or mission of the company.

While it's advisable to maintain a professional online presence, it's also important not to totally scrub your online persona. Employers value authenticity and may want to see a potential employee's personality shine through their online presence. As such, continue to post pictures and comments that are meaningful and true to you, while ensuring they present a positive and respectable image.

Therefore, consider doing a regular social media audit to make sure your accounts are representative of the person you want potential employers to see.