Online Reputation Management for the Job Search

The following is a cross post that I wrote for the Atlanta Job Spot.

Have you Googled your name? Of course you have. These days the results that do or don't come up for your name could very well make or break the decision on whether or not you get the job. So let's say you search for your name and either nothing comes up or some negative things come up. What then? Obviously you shouldn't put online what you don't want people (in this case, potential Employers) to find. But these tips may help you beat the system if for some reason you want to bury less than flattering search results and ways you can better take control of your brand online.

Try various versions of your name.
Full name with middle initial, nickname (i.e. Steve, vs. Steven) You want to see what information is out there. Usually the name you put on your resume is the name that will be searched in Google. You can avoid or draw attention to certain search results based on what name you use on your resume.

Get Online.
You have to have a presence online to show up in search results. One way to deal with bad or no press is to bury it with the information you want people to see. Utilize sites like LinkedIn, HiredIn, ZoomInfo, Emurse and other sites that allow you to create professional profiles and include your experience and expertise information. Manage your privacy settings on MySpace or Facebook for less than professional items. You don't have to remove everything - employers understand that you have a life outside of your day job - but make sure inappropriate material is not available or just don't post what you don't want them to see.

Start Discussing.
How can you distinguish yourself in your industry? You can browse LinkedIn Answers, participate in discussions on a industry-specific forum where you can showcase your expertise, comment on blogs or start your own. These are great ways to boost your search results. Not everyone needs to start a blog but you can still participate in discussions, connect with people in your industry and city on Twitter, share interesting posts and websites with your network on FriendFeed, etc. Get active in social media professionally.

Stay In The Know.
Sign up for Google Alerts to get emails when a new search result shows up with your name in it. Knowing is half the battle, right? So this way you can be prepared and know what is out there.

If I've missed anything please feel free to add your thoughts in the comments! I'd love to hear them.


Also read Why Social Networking is Important for Your Job