Job seekers are urged to be cautious about what they post on social media so they don't get "blocked" from a new job.
A Harris poll survey, commissioned by Express Employment Professionals, found that 70 per cent of hiring decision-makers believe looking at a candidate's social media profiles is an effective screening method.
It also found that 52 per cent of employers found content that caused them not to hire someone.
Local Express owner Bruce Hein said most businesses take their image very seriously.
"For example, if you're the face of a company, would you want a picture of someone taking drugs or being in a drunken stupor somewhere?," asked Hein. "You have to think in terms of those things, especially if I'm part of a face of a company. What would be acceptable to my employer?"
Hein said having a social media presence remains important.
The poll found that 24 per cent of employers aren't likely to hire someone without a social media presence.
It's suggested job seekers remove any comments or posts in which they're complaining, ranting, swearing, bullying or otherwise communicating in a harsh manner towards others, and get rid of any racy photos.
