The annual study had previously found that almost 40 percent of respondents checked out potential employee's profiles on social media sites, but this is the first year that companies had confirmed that they had rejected applicants based on their digital presence.

"The 21st century human is learning that every action leaves an indelible digital trail. In the years ahead many of us will be challenged by what we are making public in various social forums today," said Mads Christensen, network director at Worldwide.

"The face the one in five applicants disqualify themselves from an interview because of content in the social media sphere is a warning to job seekers and a true indicator of the digital reality we now live in."

where students and graduates of the ITMB degree gathered to discuss skills and meet with employers. IBM's professional development manager, Kate Ross, was speaking at the event and highlighted to those attending the importance of responsibly managing their social media profile.

"It is important to manage your digital presence and look after things like your Facebook page because we definitely look at it when you apply for a job with us," said Ross.