Professionalism in the information age

The increased use of social media, combined with the ease of finding information online, can blur personal and work identities, posing new considerations for professionalism in the information age. A professional approach is imperative in this digital age in order to maintain confidentiality, honesty, and trust in any profession. Although the ability of professionals to use online social networks, blogs, and media sites for personal and professional reasons should be preserved, a proactive approach is recommended that includes actively managing one's online presence and making informed choices about disclosure. The development of a "dual-citizenship" approach to online social media that separates public and private personae would allow professionals to both leverage networks for professional connections and maintain privacy in other aspects.
The things we post on our personal accounts can have major consequences in our professional lives. Sometimes, talking about your work experiences on your personal accounts can get you fired, even if you are relating them in a humorous way. Medical professionals need to be more cautious and create an online professional presence and avoid potential negative impact on their patients, institution, as well as their careers. Perhaps to maintain appropriate professional boundaries physicians should consider separating personal and professional content online.
Social media has influenced how we define professionalism in both positive and negative ways. For B-School students like us, who are currently looking for a job, the potential for social media to aid in job search is high. However, the idea of being “judged” for your social presence is definitely a concern. Though hiring companies aren’t supposed to be scoping out applicants on social media platforms, it does happen. If you have unethical or immature material on your social network, you are risking your professional reputation.
Thus, the social media has added a new dimension to professionalism, which previously was defined as being responsible and accountable, developing respect, doing what is right; now in the social world too.