CHECK YOUR ONLINE PRESENCE BEFORE EMPLOYERS DO

Recruiters and HR professionals now routinely conduct online investigations of candidates as part of their background checks. Do you know what they will uncover when they look into your online identity? To find out "Google" your own name to see what comes up. Be sure to include your middle initial in this test, as well as on your resume, LinkedIn Profile, and on all applications you complete. Another option is using a free background check website or app, such as www.pipl.com.

Online identity management has become more of a priority in job hunts. The good news is that you can influence what someone finds by building up content through the use of social media profiles, blogs, comments, and other tools. Brand consistency is important to keep in mind. Your resume and LinkedIn Profile may not be exactly the same, but they should be supportive of each other. Be sure that employer names, job titles, degrees, dates, statistics, etc. match.

If you don't check your online identity, there could be surprises out there easily accessed by potential employers.