chi.mp

“The online world works as a living, breathing resume,” according to Leslie Poston.  She’s right.  Your qualifications and references can no longer be constrained to a sheet of paper.  Consider how I evaluate potential hires . . .

• Google them
• Check their LinkedIn page and connections
• Verify their interests and work product across the web

For executives and people in the digital space, results will usually be found.  But even if you work in a much different field, web searches are conducted to both find and verify who you are.  Researching a real estate agent?  A designer?  A plumber?   I will search before spending or hiring.  I have to believe these simple background checks will become more common across industries.

How can you proactively manage your online presence?

1.  Set up and personalize your chi.mp site - highlight your interests and areas of expertise by connecting to services and establishing feeds that reflect the topics you want to showcase.

2.  Keep your username and identity consistent across social media sites when possible - use namechk, or if you’re willing to spend some money, ClaimMyName, to reserve multiple accounts without the hassle.

3.  Interact on the platforms where people and discussions exist that are relevant to you - from the common social networks to the niche message boards.

4.  Get an online CV up - I use VisualCV.  Jobspice is another good service.  LinkedIn is becoming a necessity, but does not provide the personalization, multimedia, or formatting options of VisualCV.

5.  Send traffic to your chi.mp site and your online CV. - Put your .mp site on your business cards and in your email signature.  Tell friends, colleagues, and potential business partners.

Are you willing to throw out the paper resume?  What other wisdom can you share?