Protecting your online reputation

According to eMarketer.com, 83% of consumers in a recent survey reported that online reviews influence their perceptions about companies. Eight out of 10 consumers reported that negative information they read about a person online made them change their mind about a purchase decision.

On the Internet, you create an image of yourself through the information you share in blogs, comments, tweets, videos, and links. Others add their own opinion and contribute to your online reputation.

Microsoft’s online safety and security center offers several tips to help you discover what is on the Internet about you, how to evaluate your online reputation, and how to protect yourself online.

Discover what is on the Internet about you

Type your first and last name into several popular search engines such as Google. Search for images as well. Search all variations of your name – other names you have used, nicknames, middle name or initials. Search sites you frequent – online directories and sites that compile public records, genealogy sites, the websites of organizations to which you belong – even your own pages.

Evaluate your online reputation

Think about the story this information tells. Does it reflect the reputation you want to leave? If not, what’s missing? Is it accurate? If not, what should be deleted or corrected? Do you need more than one online profile – whether professional, personal or for an area of interest. Do you want your profiles to be public or more private?

Because this information online is searchable, and often permanent, answers to these questions are important. They may determine what personal information you share.

Protect your online reputation

Act online in a manner that reflects the reputation you want to earn. Think before you share. Think about what you are posting (photos and videos), who you are sharing the information with, and how it will reflect your reputation. Also, be civil in what you say and show on the web.

Respect the privacy of others when you post anything about them. Stay vigilant by signing up for alerts. Some search engines will notify you automatically of any new mentions of your name or other personal information.

Restore your online reputation

If you find information about yourself that doesn’t fit the reputation you want, act quickly. In a respectful way, ask the person who posted it to remove it or correct an error. If the person doesn’t respond or refuses to help, ask the site administrator to remove the digital damage. If you feel a public correction is necessary, present your case simply and politely.