In Part 1, I set out some examples on how career transitioners can expand their research and search to include the latest in Web technology. In this part, while putting yourself out there is important, it is just as important to make sure that the right information is out there about you.
True, recruiters and hiring managers have increasingly looked to the Internet to source new candidates. Also true is the fact that they will use the Internet to filter out certain candidates.
Bottom line – if there’s something questionable about you on the Web, there’s a chance your next employer will find it. That means, for example, if you just put up a bunch of racy pictures on your Facebook or MySpace page, perhaps now would be a good time to take them down.
Some simple tips to improve your online presence in the eyes of Google, Yahoo and you next career:
1. Follow the rules of netiquette – There are plenty of sources that explain the core rules of netiquette, but, in a nutshell, act on the Internet as you would in real life. And if you are a job seeker, that means professionally.
2. Perform a regular search of your name – To figure out what kind of information is out there for you, do a Google search on yourself. That way, you’ll have a good idea of what you need to change. Of course, if your name is John Smith, you could be off the hook.
3. Use social networking to your advantage – As I mentioned in Part 1, sites like LinkedIn and Naymz have been created to improve your online standing. It’s worth looking into.