You might want to think twice before posting that super cute pic from last weekend — it could be the deciding factor in getting your next job.

Todd Donavan, an Associate Professor of Marketing at CSU, believes social media websites can play an important role when applying for jobs. Donavan lectures his classes about the importance of social media and has friends who are directly involved in the hiring process.

“They absolutely look at Facebook,” Donavan said.

Donavan explained that it is okay to have fun, but it is important to be discreet on social media websites and avoid potential red flags such as excessively talking about partying because it signals immaturity. However, Donavan wants students to know that it is possible to make a positive impression using social media as well.

“Build a profile that shows positive things that you care about, such as giving back to the community,” Donavan said.

Rachel Chan, a senior business marketing and management major, tries to keep her profiles professional and upbeat.

“I like to post a lot of positive stuff on Facebook,” Chan said. “It is good to show that you have a positive attitude.”

Chan, who is also the President of BizMiss and Marketing Clubs, urges students to utilize LinkedIn as a way to provide potential employers with additional information that may not be on your resume. She explained that it is also important to remain professional on social media after getting a job.

“It will continue to affect people’s impression of you,” Chan said.

Marissa West, a Marketing Manager for Co’s BMW and MINI of Loveland, said that her company uses social media sites minimally because they can typically get a good gauge of people during their interviews. She said that she will only use social media as a tool if she gets a mixed feeling about someone during an interview.

“I don’t feel that social media is always a good representation of someone,” West said. “It isn’t a direct reflection of who that person is.”

West explained that one of the reasons why her company doesn’t rely heavily on social media is because it can be a slippery slope that can lead to assumptions about someone that aren’t accurate.

Having said that, West believes individuals should still be careful about what they are posting and strive to show a well rounded image of themselves on Facebook and other social media sites. Donavan agrees.

“It’s like a coloring contest and judges are looking for who’s coloring outside the lines and eliminating them,” Donavan said. “If you have questionable things on your social media sites, it could eliminate you.”

Collegian Reporter Maddie Buxton can be reached at news@collegian.com.