Did you know that your online presence, from social media to Google results and reviews, can be used by employers to making hiring decisions and by colleges for admissions choices?
- 11% of college admissions counselors have denied someone entry into their college because of social media.
- 1 in 4 college admissions counselors check a student’s online presence when considering their application.
- 70% of employers check an applicant’s social media before deciding to hire them.
As you can see, your online presence can really impact your opportunities. Here are some helpful steps to make sure you put your best foot forward online.
1. Comb Through Your Content
- Search your name and look at the first page of web results and image results.
- Check all your social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc.
- Even if you are tagged by someone else in a post, it could reflect poorly on you.
- Blog posts
- Easily traceable public reviews
2. Erase or Privatize
- Descriptions or images of drug or alcohol use
- Images or photos that could be considered offensive or insensitive
- Speaking poorly about an employer, school, or individual in an unprofessional way
- Explicit/Sexual images or language
3. Don’t Forget the Good Stuff Too! There Are Lots of Ways to Build a Positive Web Presence:
- Create a LinkedIn Profile.
- This is a great way to start networking and putting your accomplishments and interests online.
- Ask your network to write recommendations and endorse you.
- Build a Portfolio or Collection of Original Work Online.
- Many computer science majors feature their code on GitHub.
- Creative professionals often have a website or a digital portfolio to showcase their skills.
- Make Your Bios Professional
- If you use social media like Twitter or Instagram, your bio and information you share should reflect your professional passions and interests.
- Share Your Articles
- Share any articles you have written or features in your school or local newspaper.
- Share Your Story
- If you use social media like Twitter or Instagram, your bio and information you share should reflect your professional passions and interests.
- Tell your story.
- Whether it’s through a website, blog, YouTube channel, article for your school paper, or another creative way, find a way to tell your story and share your passion or art.
Good luck and feel free to reach out to your CoFo coach with any questions!
