Every word matters, whether you are delivering a message verbally or through an online platform, including all social media. Each day, I read multiple posts, primarily on LinkedIn, which is a business and networking site where you can deliver a compelling message for free, that can make or break you in your career management. I also view Facebook, which is becoming an increasingly popular tool that executive recruiters and corporate decision makers utilize to review one’s presence.
Today, I viewed a post stemming from a highly reputable business school highlighting their forthcoming admissions to an eMBA program. There were many eloquent comments from persons considering taking this degree as well as current candidates and alumni. But ONE comment stood out from all the others: “An eMBA stinks and isn’t worth the money.” As a career management professional who encourages career advancement and continuing education through a variety of degrees, this comment alarmed me. I opened this person’s profile and noted they had not attended any degree course or achieved any designation since 2001.
This raised my eyebrows and got me thinking like a hiring authority. What would you think if someone has not completed any courses, designations or degrees in 18 years? At least that is what they portrayed on their LinkedIn profile. Combine this thought, which is part of the screening process when you submit a job application, with the verbiage “An eMBA stinks and isn’t worth the money.” What message does that send? To me, it is totally negative and arrogant. Are corporations or other organizations going to hire someone who shows no willingness to take further education, let alone knock those who do? Remember, this comment will remain on the internet for all to see for many years to come. If a hiring authority decides to conduct a detailed web search, these few words will come back to haunt that person. Be careful what you articulate on social media. Do you want to be hunted or haunted?
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