The importance of reputation management for students
Ever since Facebook was introduced in 2004, the popularity of using social media has been increase tremendously for the past 10 years. While more social platforms are introduced, such as Google+, Twitter and Linkedin, just to name a few. More than 70% of world population is on the social networks nowadays. The social media platform has become new personal identity for each individuals when it comes to internet.
The original idea of social network was to create a community, “on the internet”. What it is differ than traditional group is, whatever you posted, mentioned, or talked stays on the internet, even though you have deleted it. Many people, especially students and young adults have underestimated the influence of social media; they seem it as a personal tool and occasionally post some emotional responses. However, many were not realized those responses has become part of their personal evaluation when it comes to employment.
Here are top three tips for students to prepare for reputation management on social networks;
Image-
Ever watched The Ellen Show? You may find it funny when you see an audience embarrassed by Ellen with their Facebook photo; it is likely your photo is also viewed by potential employers. According to a recent study by SilkRoad, “75% of leaders in human resources and talent management believe their companies aare behind the curve regarding both internal and external social networking technology” (SilkRoad). It is strongly suggested that students should not post improper images that may affect their own image in front of public.
Text-
People often post when they are having complaints, emotions and/or argument. However, yelling or cursing over social networks does not help. You may express/release your emotion at the time of incidence, but it also indicates that the person lack controls on personal emotions. Employers often look at the messages posted by students to pre-determine his or her personality. Thus being said, post stuffs related to your field, stay positive, encourage and helpful on social networks will help individuals build up their reputation.
Confidential-
Have you watched the film called “Catch Me If You Can”? It has never been this easy to steal someone’s identity than before. Frank Abagnale Jr, one of the most famous American conmen of all time, said Facebook has made life easier for fraudsters across the world (Techeye). While the majority of people post their date of birth, birth place and personal portrait on social networks, it is like posting your driver’s licence on public billboard waiting for someone to take your identity. While using social media is inevitable, we should keep our personal information minimal. A result of lost in identification may cause email spam, posting unpleasant message and in even worse scenario, lost in personal assets.
Overall, we should manage our online reputation just like how we manage our own real image in real life. In some instances, it is even more crucial when it come to the web.
