Think before you post that status - 28 Jan 2013

From those party pics you wish weren't snapped to those ever confusing privacy settings, there's no doubt that social media networks can get you into trouble if you are not careful enough. The fact is, if you post it, it has the potential to be seen by someone you don't want seeing it.

According to a survey conducted in 2012, social recruiting has become an essential HR practice, with 92% of US companies using social networks and media to find potential employers, up from 78% five years ago. Business-oriented social networking site, LinkedIn continues to be a dominant recruiting network, while Facebook and Twitter have seen major growth in the past year. Two-thirds of companies now recruit through Facebook and more than half use Twitter to find new talent. The results of the survey found that employers scrutinize social media activity, noting more than half of respondents would have a negative reaction to seeing a spelling or grammar mistake in a social profile. (Source: Jobvite)

My question is: Are you aware that a future potential employer may be keeping an eye on your status updates, your tweets, your check-ins, your picture uploads? My simple answer, probably not.

Recently I came across a new web app called FaceWash. Still in beta phase, this app will most probably save your Facebook profile by removing any profanities that you've forgotten about over the years. I suggest you go and try it out - you never know who's watching.

This week, Mark Gray provides insight on Recruitment in Africa: Predictions for 2013; Yusuf Begg claims that mobile marketing leads the way and MTN Uganda launches Wi-Fi hotspots.

Continuing with our Biz Trends 2013 series, here are some more insights from players in the advertising, marketing and media industries: