Digital First Impressions

We have gone over making a good First Impression, but there is another area that we should cover. Making good Digital First Impressions.

First impressions matter.

In the past, that first impression was formed by stepping into a room and greeting a new audience.

Today, things are a little different. First impressions start before you even meet a person in “real life”. The internet provides a glimpse into your past, present, and future. First impressions start online…FIRST.

It can take just a few simple steps to adjust your social media and Google presence so that the people searching for you see what you want them to see.

Here are some ways to help clean up digital first impressions:

1. Social Media Makeover

You have had a social media profiles for years. There may be photos or posts on there that are not business appropriate or in-line with the brand you represent. Ensure that there is no content from the past that might haunt you in the future, do an assessment of your social media pages. Delete old photos and posts that no longer fit your image. Change your current profile photo and bio to reflect who you are as well as your goals. 

2. Strategized Posts 

Now that your social media pages are cleaned up, it’s time to talk strategy. When people search your name on Google, your social profiles will usually appear first. To get new clients, change jobs, or just book meetings with other professionals in your industry, have a strategy to what you post on social media. In addition to posting personal news, such as family trips or the best thing you had for lunch, post industry updates and articles you enjoy. Post at a regular interval so that people searching you will see you are active online. 

3. A Personal Website

Having a personal website is one way to improve what people see when they Google search your name. Create an online portfolio of your work, a contact page for people to reach you, and a carefully constructed “About” section so people can get to know you.

Organize your brand online and craft your own digital first impressions so that when a person plans to meet you offline, they already have a great first impression before ever shaking your hand.

This information is from the our Resume Writing & Networking class in our  Human Resources curriculum. If you’re looking for ways to improve your communication skills, register for one of our public classes.

Photo courtesy of ATLAS Social Media on Flickr

Other Resources:

The 4 Building Blocks of a Strong Digital Presence

How to Master the Digital First Impression

10 Ways to Build Your Online Identity

Improving Your Online Presence with Social Media