Five Ways to Increase Your Online Reputation

Recruiters and HR managers continue to use the Internet more and more to search for viable candidates. As such, your online reputation deserves some serious examination as you begin your job search. Make sure your online presence is as reputable as possible, because up to 51 percent of companies perform an Internet search to find information about you and more than 52 percent of employers reach out to candidates through social media.

Increase your online reputation by taking relevant steps to tempt a deeper look from an employer or recruiter. Tech-savvy industries tend to migrate towards Internet searches to find candidates, so polish your online presence when you apply for jobs within the fields of information technology, sales, financial services and business services, even if you apply for an entry-level position.

1. Show Experience

Your LinkedIn profile represents a great way to show your past work experience thanks to your job summaries, connections with colleagues and your job duties from past employers. However, your personal website also provides recruiters an extra source to find your online reputation. Make an infographic, short YouTube video or slideshow to show off your creativity and post some visually appealing content for HR managers to examine.

2. Provide Proof of Work

Provide samples of work on your personal website through a special category labeled "Portfolio." In this space, post graphic design pieces, coding, writing samples, drawings and photographs as physical examples of the type of work you do. Post these samples on industry websites or freelancer websites that match your personal website to increase your online reputation. The more searchable you become, the easier recruiters can find information about you.

3. Make Your Personality Shine

A LinkedIn profile serves as the perfect canvas to let your personality shine. The summary portion of your profile has a space to write anything you want in whatever length you see fit. Three to five short paragraphs create a cover letter-type document for recruiters to see your passion, commitment and understanding of a position. For social media posts and updates, add some of your own thoughts as you post articles.

4. Share Opinions

Share opinions and reviews of your work ethic to manage your online reputation in a positive way. Especially on LinkedIn, you can open the Recommendations portion to have colleagues, co-workers and supervisors share their thoughts about you. Add testimonials to your personal website by quoting what other people said about your work. Always get someone's permission first before adding their opinions of you.

5. Communicate

Overall, your online presence shows an employer how you communicate. Show your writing skills by creating error-free profiles that lack spelling mistakes or grammatical gaffes. Note any oral presentations you made at past employers as a way to show your verbal communications skills. Find other websites that validate your work, such as YouTube videos that show your presentation at an industry gathering.

Managing your online reputation serves as a way to sharpen a personal brand to present to potential employers. One disparaging post, wayward opinion or racy photo may sink your chances of landing a great job, so be thorough as you examine how people view you through Internet sources that anyone may find.

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