It appears that more people are becoming increasingly concerned about how they are presenting themselves online. Many articles have discussed the position to take in managing your reputation proactively online by monitoring what others say about you, what you have presented online on several social media sites, etc. The list goes on and on. However, if there is information out and present online that is not viewed as professional – what are the consequences. Well, there are some that are finding out the hard way that what is online not only stays online, but is present for the world to see. A recent Mediashift article discusses how the first round of young politicians are learning this lesson the hard way when they found out while running for a political office that people were commenting and posting pictures of them that appeared a few years ago on Facebook.
Social media has indeed changed business and public relations, but other industries as well. Not only do people have to be aware of how this is impacting their professional lives, but personal as well. Future politicians are going to have to be aware of that their digital presence and past is available for the world to see online with a click of a button. Pictures and videos really give people an insight to the person you truly are, and first impressions are definitely important to consider as well. Emanuel Pleitez, assistant on the economy board for the U.S. Treasury Department, made some excellent points regarding this situation by stating, “If I were to advise future political candidates, I would say don’t be afraid of what’s on Facebook, and don’t be so paranoid. Just be aware and be ready. It’s better to be transparent, open and humble about whatever your past is than it is to hide things.” What I am seeing here is that people are still working in the same mentallity that they can control the message and information on them online – well, not necessarily. But what we are seeing is a changing in the system where people are recognizing the impact of social media and how it is changing the political arena and putting a microscope on public personas and the every day person as well.
The best rule of thumb is to have one set of manners – act professionally and considerate to others in all aspects of life – and make sure that your persona and overall reputation is the same in each profession, setting, and situation you are in. If you have one thing to think about- you don’t have to worry about what persona you are supposed to be in a given situation. Be aware that we are living in a digital age, and each person has the power to take a picture, video, or write something about you online that could impact your overall reputation. This is why it is crucial to have a presence online to have your own voice and be your own advoccate for your personal brand and reputation. Some of these things can be taught, but most of the time these are based on instinct and personality.
These are just a few of my thoughts on the subject. Hope you all are having a great day.
Best Wishes,
Karen
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