Should Employers Have Access to Your Social Media Profiles?

A somewhat disturbing trend has arisen due to the popularity of social media sites like Facebook.  Employers are now asking job candidiates, as well as current employees, for access to their Facebook page.

Why are they asking for this information?

Most are considering it as part of their "background investigations."  Considering how much is available to the public online, is this really necessary?  Isn't this a violation of an individual's privacy?

Unfortunately, unless you change your privacy settings on Facebook, someone doing a search on you can see what your postings are.  Even if you do change your settings, some employers are asking for your password.  Aren't most employers emphasizing that you don't share your work passwords with others?  How can they expect you to do the same in regards to your personal life?

If you're looking for a job and a potential employer asks for this information, it's a good idea to be prepared with an answer.  While not giving them your password information may prevent you from getting the job, would you want to work for a company that doesn't respect your privacy?

Some people would say that if you don't want anyone to see anything discriminating information about you, it shouldn't be posted on Facebook.  We can all agree on that to some extent but remember it is a social media site.  It's meant to be a place to interact with others and have fun doing it.

There are also some concerns that an employer can use information like race, religion, sexual preference, or age that they may find on Facebook against a potential job candidate. 

In the end, it's up to the job candidate to decide on what information they wish to provide during the interview/hiring process.  It may be helpful to ask a company what their exact policy is on social media and how they process the information found there.

Do you think employers should be allowed access to your social media accounts?  Have you ever been denied a job for not providing your password?  Please share your thoughts with us in the comments below.