Using MySpace or Facebook for Background or Reference Checks? Let the Candidate Explain.

The use of social networking sites such as Facebook and MySpace for recruitment purposes falls into two main buckets: using them to include and exclude candidates from the hiring process.
Virtually all candidates are happy to be included. Use the sites like quasi-resume banks by searching for education, experience, and other relevant skills.
Candidates expect employers to use a non-password protectes site like MySpace more than they expect them to use Facebook, but I recommend extreme caution when using either and it is probably best just not to use either. There is a lot of bogus info on both sites, some of which is posted by the candidates themselves for kicks and giggles with their friends. Some is posted by third parties such as disgruntled ex-boyfriends. If you must use the info, at least afford the candidate an opportunity to explain should you find anything damaging. There may be a very good explanation that will prevent you from declining to hire a true star.