Can my employer ask me to take my résumé off a career website?

Dear Deb:

My boss just called me in her office and asked me if I am searching for a new job.  She said that she saw my résumé on a local career site.  I told her that I posted it 18 months earlier when I was considering a change, but I am not searching now.  She asked why I did not take it down.  I said that I forgot about it. First question:  Can she ask me that?   Second question:  Can she ask me to take it down?  Obviously my boss spends time looking at résumés on job boards for people in our field.

Thank you!

Jennifer

Dear Jennifer,

Yes, she can ask you if you are searching.  She is most likely asking because she values you and does not want you to quit.  However, she cannot force you not to post your résumé.  It is smart to keep a current presence online via résumé postings on select sites and also on social media sites.  Any savvy manager recognizes this.  What you can do to diffuse the situation is ask to speak with your boss.  Assure her that you are not actively looking.   If you are happy in your job, let her know that.  If you are looking for more challenge, greater compensation, or a change in duties, share that with your boss in a tactful way.  This could actually be an opportunity to improve your current situation.

Thanks for writing,

Deb