Digital Reputation Checklist

“Google Is Your Résumé” —
by Stephanie C. Harper, Author of Why Should I Hire You?

Step 1: Google Yourself

Search your full name in quotation marks (e.g., “Stephanie C. Harper”) and review the first two pages of results.

Ask Yourself:

• Does the information that appears represent who I am professionally?
• Are there old, outdated, or incorrect results I can request to remove or update?
• Are there positive, professional results that highlight my expertise or accomplishments?
• Is my LinkedIn profile one of the first results? If not, it should be.

Step 2: Review Your Professional Profiles

LinkedIn

• Profile photo is clear, recent, and professional.
• Headline reflects my current skills or career focus.
• “About” section clearly communicates who I am and what I do.
• Experience section matches my résumé.
• I post, comment, or share relevant professional content regularly.

Other Platforms (Indeed, Glassdoor, etc.)

• Résumé uploads are current.
• Job titles, dates, and details are consistent across all platforms.
• Contact information is correct and professional.

Step 3: Audit Your Social Media

Facebook / Instagram / X (Twitter) / TikTok

• Profile picture and bio are appropriate for a professional audience.
• No offensive or controversial posts, comments, or photos.
• Privacy settings are reviewed and updated.
• I’ve removed or hidden any posts that could be misunderstood by employers.
• I follow or engage with content that reflects my personal values and career interests.

Pro Tip:

If you wouldn’t say it in an interview, it shouldn’t be on your feed.

Step 4: Strengthen Your Online Brand

• I’ve created or updated a personal website, online portfolio, or link hub (e.g., Linktree).
• I’ve written a short professional bio that’s consistent across platforms.
• I’ve shared at least one professional insight, project, or article this month.
• I’ve joined at least one professional group or community online.
• I’ve used AI tools (ChatGPT, Canva Magic Write, Notion AI) to help polish my online summaries or content.

Step 5: Build Digital Credibility

• My email address looks professional (e.g., firstname.lastname@…).
• I’ve asked colleagues or clients for a LinkedIn recommendation.
• I’ve engaged with or congratulated others on professional milestones.
• I’ve published or reshared content that aligns with my field or interests.
• My tone online matches the reputation I want to build offline.

Step 6: Consistency Check

Your résumé, LinkedIn, and social media should tell the same story.

• Job titles, company names, and dates match everywhere.
• Skills and credentials are listed consistently.
• My personal brand message is clear: who I am, what I do, and what I bring.

Step 7: Maintain Your Digital Reputation

• Set a reminder every 90 days to Google yourself and review your profiles.
• Keep adding new content that shows your growth, skills, and credibility.
• Remember: your online footprint is permanent—own it and protect it.

Final Thought

“If Google is your résumé, make sure every search result says:
‘This is someone I want to hire.’”
— Stephanie C. Harper