In our previous blog post, we discussed the importance of branding yourself online in order to stand out in front of potential employers. Today, we will discuss the importance of not creating a negative online image, which is the first step towards achieving a professional online presence. Let's face it, creating an online profile is done to create an image, try to avoid making that image "party guy", it may come back to haunt you.

Nowadays, employers utilize all sorts of tactics to search for information on their star candidate. These can range from a simple internet search, to hiring a professional background investigation service. The latter of the two is used for very serious things such as identity verification and criminal record checks. However, a simple internet name search, or some time spent on social networking sites can reveal a lot about a potential (or current) employee. Such simple searches can reveal information that would prevent an employer from inviting a candidate for an interview, or even from offering them a job. In some cases it may cost an employee his or her job.

Luckily, making sure you have a presentable online profile is easy and low maintenance. Here are a few tips to ensure that you are not negatively impacting your online presence with your social networking activities.

Use an Alias: If you are using social networking sites for personal and fun use, do not use your real or full name, that way it cannot be searched based on a submitted resume. 

Restrict Followers: If you are using a Twitter account, restrict access to those who can follow you. If you are using a Facebook or other social networking site, consider restricting who can view or search your profile, comments, et cetera.

Post Wisely: You never know who`s reading or viewing your content. Generally, if it`s posted it is no longer private, and some things are meant to be private. Don`t be afraid to ask your friends to remove photos of you which may negatively affect your image.

To test your online presence, try searching yourself and see what comes up, you may be surprised. Also, check through your various profiles on social networking sites and try and view it from the perspective of a potential employer. How do you think you appear through their eyes?