Are You Job Hunting? What Will Employers Find When They Google You?
You can manage your online identity to control your reputation and your image in the job market in these 5 ways:*LinkedIn: Take the time to set up a professional LinkedIn profile, join some groups, and get active. LinkedIn is the primary business networking site for professionals. It"s a tremendously powerful resource for you to research companies, keep tabs on the hidden job market, and contact hiring managers about jobs.  A well-crafted LinkedIn profile will showcase your job history, your skills, and your recommendations.
*Facebook: Although this can be a great, casual place to network socially, it"s important that you don"t get too comfortable. No trashy pictures, bad language, or any controversial religious/political comments. It"s still a public forum, and you really don"t know who might end up seeing something you"ve said, even if you"re trying to be careful of your privacy.
*Twitter: Twitter is a terrific place to be in the conversation on just about anything. Again, watch what you say. Keep it professional. Ask questions, and try to help others. An employer will be impressed with someone who"s engaged and relevant.
*Show up in unexpected places: In addition to interacting on the social sites, think about writing a guest post for a relevant blog, or start your own. Comment on other writers" articles with something of value. Think about contributing to medical/healthcare/laboratory presentations at conferences. Newsletters or other publications aimed at laboratory work, medical device, or other health care industry areas would be great.
*Be consistent: Get a professional photo (it doesn"t have to be professionally done; it should just be a formal, businesslike pose) and use that photo every time a photo is called for. Make sure your name is consistently written so that it shows up in a search.
Ultimately, you decide how people will see you. Since you know they"ll be looking, be proactive. Make sure they see the confident, competent professional they want to hire.