I’ve started to use Facebook to look up possible hires. I’ve screened out a lot showing very freakish behavior and have hired those who seem to be well balanced. It’s definitely kept me from doing some bad hires. Anyone can put on a show for an interview.
I’ve been wondering about this software that they claim to have.
I know for certain that it possible for software to analyze the writings of people and, given enough material, derive a chillingly accurate profile of the author. Supposedly, in a few paragraphs, it is possible to determine your sex, your age (give or take a few years), your education/income, and sometimes your general location - all without any direct clues. It shouldn’t be that difficult to assign certain characteristics to each unique entity on a board and match them closely to other boards, only one of which might contain the user’s actual identity.
In other words, if you are on Facebook, your writing style may give you away here. So, don’t think that you are “safe” - which is why I may or may not be on any social networks.
I’m continually amazed at the things some of my Facebook aquaintances say on that site. One of them liked to post about his drinking binges (he was under 21 at the time). Another continually trashes her ex-husband—I think she will live to regret that when he gets fed up and takes her to court to modify custody/child support of their son. You can learn a lot about a person on Facebook, much of it info that person didn’t consciously intend to convey.