The Wall Street Journal has an article on how some Internet-savvy recruiters now use online social or networking sites to check candidates’ references without even bothering asking for permission first.

The idea that reference checks should be done after an interview no longer stands. Not only that, even if recruiters ask candidates to provide references, they will not limit themselves to those… The Internet has made our world smaller and that could backfire for some job seekers. Although some HR professionals say it could play both ways, meaning that the practice could also benefit job seekers, there is an issue of privacy and ethics.

A job application is simply an expression of interest in a job opening. Can employers/ recruiters use that to invade the personal lives of applicants even before meeting with them? Also, if the applicant is currently working, will actions taken by a recruiter impact on that applicant’s employment? Recruitment practices help employers find the right candidates, but is also reflective of their corporate philosophy… so it could also draw a negative impression of the employer.

Personally, I would think twice before joining a company with bad recruitment practices.

Job References You Can’t Control, The Wall Street Journal