Building a strong online presence is essential in today’s digital age. From social media profiles to professional networking sites, our online presence can greatly impact our personal and professional lives. In fact, according to a recent survey by CareerBuilder, 70% of employers use social media to screen potential candidates before making hiring decisions. This means that our digital desirability, or how desirable we are online, can directly affect our career opportunities. Whether you are looking to enhance your personal brand or advance your career, here are the dos and don’ts of building your digital desirability.
DO: Manage Your Online Reputation
Your online reputation is a reflection of your character and can greatly impact how others perceive you. It is important to regularly monitor your social media profiles and Google yourself to see what content is associated with your name. If you come across any negative or unprofessional content, take the necessary steps to remove or hide it. You can also use online reputation management tools to help you maintain a positive online image.
DON’T: Overshare Personal Information
While it’s important to be authentic and showcase your personality online, it’s also important to maintain a level of privacy. Avoid sharing sensitive personal information, such as your home address or phone number, on public platforms. This can leave you vulnerable to identity theft or online harassment. Also, be mindful of the types of photos and posts you share, as they can also impact your digital desirability.
DO: Use High-Quality Visuals
In the digital world, first impressions are often based on visuals. This is why it is important to use high-quality visuals, such as professional headshots and well-designed graphics, on your social media profiles and personal website. These visuals can help you stand out and leave a positive impression on your audience.
The Dos and Don'ts of Building Your Digital Desirability
DON’T: Neglect Your LinkedIn Profile
LinkedIn is the top professional networking site and is often the first place employers and recruiters look when researching potential candidates. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is complete and up-to-date, with a professional profile photo and a well-written summary. Also, engage with others on the platform through commenting, sharing relevant content, and joining industry-related groups.
DO: Show Your Expertise
Building your digital desirability also means showcasing your knowledge and expertise in your field. Share articles, blog posts, and other relevant content that demonstrate your industry knowledge and passion. This can help establish you as a thought leader and increase your credibility in the eyes of potential employers or clients.
DON’T: Engage in Online Arguments or Controversial Discussions
While it’s important to share your opinions and engage in meaningful discussions online, it’s also important to be mindful of how you do so. Avoid getting involved in heated arguments or engaging in controversial discussions that can damage your professional reputation. Remember, everything you say or do online is a reflection of your personal brand.
Current Event: Recently, a video of a woman berating a Lyft driver went viral, causing the woman to face major backlash on social media and even getting fired from her job. This serves as a reminder that our actions online can have real-life consequences and can greatly impact our digital desirability.
In summary, building your digital desirability requires managing your online reputation, maintaining a level of privacy, using high-quality visuals, utilizing LinkedIn effectively, showcasing your expertise, and being mindful of your online interactions. By following these dos and don’ts, you can enhance your personal brand and increase your chances of success in the digital world.