This is not the first time you've heard that employers are checking soc-nets for potential candidate's profiles, activity, andinformation but my guess is that you hadn't realized how often this has really happened! Almost half (45%) of employers have checked soc-nets in 2009 (a 48% increase from just last year!). With this type of growth rate, you can expect with in the next two years, almost all employers will be searching soc-nets for your info.

Where are they looking? Facebook is numero uno at almost 30% and next in line is LinkedIn at 21%. Personally, LinkedIn is no such surprise because it is essentially your online resume and professional profile. Your LinkedIn profile is the info you want them to find first when they browse the web. 

Now the real dirt... What are they finding? Just over one-third of employers have found content that have caused them not to hire a candidate (www.careerbuilder.com).

The top examples for rejecting a candidate based on social network information:

• 53% of survey respondents rejected candidates because they posted provocative or inappropriate photographs or information.
• 44% passed on a candidate because they saw content related to the person drinking or using drugs.
• 35% rejected candidates because they bad-mouthed their previous employer, co-workers or clients.
• 29% disqualified a candidate because the person showed poor communication skills.
• 26% rejected a candidate because that candidate made discriminatory comments on a social networking site.
• 24% rejected a candidate because that person lied about his/her qualifications.
• 20% did not hire a candidate because social media revealed that person had shared confidential information from a previous employer.

But not all bad. The study from CareerBuilder also explains some of the highlights: 

• 50% say a candidate’s profile provided a good feel for the candidate’s personality and fit.
• 39% say a profile supported candidate’s professional qualifications.
• 38% say it showed a candidate is creative.
• 35% say  a candidate showed solid communication skills.
• 33% say it showed a candidate was well-rounded.
• 19% were impressed that others posted good references about a candidate.
• 15% say it showed that a candidate received awards and accolades.

Key take out- It's very important to watch what information you post on your soc-nets! Any negative light on your mood while you most might make a negative light on your "brand image" to a potential employer. Your profile can do some harm. But be yourself- it could get you hired! Don't forget to ask for recommendations on LinkedIn! Major plus!!