Employees Beware! What Do Your Posts Say About You?

Person typing on their mobile phone

Those 280 characters …. are they being used to determine your suitability for a job?



According to IBM researchers there is a high correlation (80%) between analysing posts compared with psychometric tests. People can be classified as 1 of 5 main personality traits, depending on the posts you write:

  • Extroversion
  • Agreeableness
  • Conscientiousness
  • Neuroticism
  • Openness

The software will scan a user’s posts to determine a personality profile which in turn can impact your suitability for a particular position.

IBM Research also noted some interesting observations from users’ posts:

  • The longer the words you use, the more likely you are to get along with your colleagues
  • If you use words like “we”, “friends” and “family” then you are likely to be more caring

It is a reminder to us all that you need to be mindful of the words, comments and photos you choose to display on your social media profiles, not only on X, but also on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram, Pinterest, Google Plus … More employers are putting greater emphasis on googling your social media profiles before conveying offers to candidates.

Colleen Tankard, retired Partner of Legal People, at her farewell lunch
October 20, 2025
After an incredible 38 years, we celebrate Colleen Tankard's dedication and contribution to Legal People and wish her the best in her retirement.
Woman and a robot at a desk with a PC. The woman is writing on paper while the robot looks on
October 1, 2025
How to use AI tools in a smart way when preparing your next legal job application so you don't end up sounding like every other applicant.
Aerial view of central business district at dusk
August 20, 2025
Making a lateral move is a significant decision that warrants more than just a salary comparison. The questions you should ask yourself before making the leap.