Facebook, MySpace and Bebo can affect an individual's job application, one recruitment firm has warned.
According to research conducted by Badenoch & Clark, 62 per cent of bosses have checked a social networking site in the process of evaluating prospective job candidates.
The organisation has warned job applicants that putting pictures on the web of boozy nights on the town may hinder their career.
A director at Badenoch & Clark, Andy Powell, commented that some social networking users can get carried away with the information they put online.
"Most people have many elements to their online presence, but they don't all necessarily show us in the best light," he said.
"More employers are taking note of net reputation so it is right to be a bit careful."
ClickAJob chief executive Yngve Traberg recognises Facebook as an invaluable tool, particularly in assessing character -with good reason, he says.
"When your company is your baby, you want to know everything about the babysitter you hire to look after it," he remarks.
He goes further, stating: "Unfortunately, a presence on Facebook can be a bit like being splashed all over the tabloid press, particularly if you're the subject of outrageous behaviour."
"Having fun is one thing, looking after your career chances might be slightly more important."
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