We’ve reviewed traditional aspects of looking great. What about your professional appearance on the world wide web?
Long gone are the days when all you needed was a good resume and a nicely pressed suit to present yourself. More often HR departments, recruiters, and the like are using the internet to locate potential employees as well as pre-screen those employees who have submitted applications/resumes for employment.
Once something is posted online, it can be copied and shared immediately. Information, especially negative information, spreads like wildfire. Furthermore, with the presence of social networking sites like MySpace, Facebook, and Twitter, you must be careful about what you post there while looking for a job as well as while you’re employed. Some areas to consider:
Photos. It is not a good idea to post images with nudity, and this could also get you in trouble because it is a violation of the terms and conditions of most sites. You should not post pictures where you are in uncompromising positions or performing unprofessional acts. Also, think moderation. A picture of you and some friends having an alcoholic beverage is one thing, but several pictures of you chug-a-lugging (yes, that’s a technical term) drinks does not communicate professionalism or constraint to a potential employer that stumbles upon your profile.
Websites. Think about what sites you link to or what sites your promote by association. For example, you’d want to evaluate if posting information about your favored political candidate could hurt your chances of gaining employment. Similarly, think about the expression of your religious and spiritual views as well
Messages. Blogs are a good medium for expressing yourself, but you must be careful of what you say. Don’t post negative things about other people or organizations that you’ve worked for. This provides potential employers with a demonstration your character and integrity.
I’m not trying to infringe upon your first amendment rights. I’m offering this advice - be strategic in what you say, what causes you support, and what affiliations you make online, especially if you choose to make your online presence public. Many sites offer methods to make your profile private from everyone except those you approve. This is an excellent compromise in allowing your freedom of expression while maintaining a professional image online. If you choose to go the public route, a good rule of thumb - don’t post anything you wouldn’t want your grandmother to see. And remember, you must maintain your virtual reputation as well as your physical one.
So, have fun, but be responsible!
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