The Do's and Don'ts of Your Online Presence

Building the Brand of You online is a must in today’s virtual world – especially since it’s now easier then ever and completely free. But what should be included in your professional online presence? How can you ensure you put your best foot forward? Here are a few of the do’s and don’ts of creating and using your presence on the Internet through a free online profile.

The Don’ts

1. Don’t assume you’re listed or easy to find in a search engine without checking first. Google your name to see your search results. If you have a common name, such as Mark Smith, you might be surprised to find over 28 million search results are presented against your name in Google. Which one is the real you?

2. If your name is uncommon, also don’t assume you’re listed in search engines without checking first. An uncommon name may deliver fewer search results, but that won’t guarantee any of the results are you.

3. When building an online profile, don’t include casual photos. Keep it professional. A professional online profile can be used for both professional and personal reasons. But a personal online profile cannot be used for business.

The Do’s

1. Do include a professional photo, background information, contact information and recognitions that lend credibility, such as professional awards, associations you are a member of, or the fact that you completed a marathon. You can do this quickly and easily at Ziggs, where creating a profile is free.

2. Do give your profile top visibility across all major search engines, so prospects and colleagues can find you in search results. Ziggs can manage this for you for the low cost of $4.95 per month. Imagine, just forego one Starbucks Caramel Macchiato per month - and you’re on top of the search universe for that month. Hard to believe? Try a search on my name (Julia Bradley) at Google, Yahoo, MSN, AOL and more. You’ll see my name listed at or near the top of search results at every major engine, with a link to my profile and contact information. It's a no-brainer boost for your credibility.

3. Do email your online profile in advance of a meeting or sales call, building trust early. Do email your online profile during phone conversations with prospects or clients, building rapport during the call. And do email your online profile after meeting someone, as a more personal thank you that increases your credibility as well.

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