Now is the time to Google your full name and any variation of it. Take a look at your Facebook and Twitter accounts. Are you finding anything that a future employer may find questionable? Even if you have not posted anything objectionable, someone else may have!

As employers are routinely running background checks and using these social networking sites, we recommend taking steps to remove any objectionable information. Unprofessional behavior and negative images can prevent you from clearing employers’ background checks and obtaining possible dream positions. Take the time now to make certain that the image existing of you in the world – both real and virtual – is one you are proud to display. Your opportunity to begin crafting a professional reputation and image starts now. The CSD highly recommends that you create a professional profile on www.linkedin.com.

For more information on this topic, consult the “Five Steps to Create and Maintain a Professional Online Persona” in Symplicity’s Document Library.