As you apply for jobs and think about where you want to work during or after college, remember that more than half of employers don’t just check your resume and cover letter– they also check your social media accounts. Here are some tips on how you can manage your online presence:

Search Your Name

If you haven’t already, Google your name and see what comes up. If you find an embarrassing photo your friend posted of you on their accounts, ask them to delete them or remove any tags of yourself. 

Create an Online Portfolio 

Find an outlet to showcase your skills, work, projects, and who you are. Whether by creating a website you can put on your resume or a business social account, an online portfolio will help employers get more of a sense of what you can offer them beyond a piece of paper. 

Be Smart About Who You Follow

Go through your following list and see if there are any red flags employers might find. Be selective about who you follow and connect with on social media regularly. 

Think Before Posting 

Avoid sharing negative posts that could hurt your reputation or someone else’s. This reflects poorly on you and is unkind and not worth doing. 

Check Employers on Social Media 

Just as employers will check your social accounts, check theirs as well. Do your research and see what the company or organization is passionate about, what they value, and their current and next agenda. This is a smart way to stand out in interviews, build conversation, and show interest in working with them.