Managing your online reputation - Ensuring your digital footprint aligns with your brand

Welcome back to The Brand Advocate! I’m Vicky, your personal branding strategist, here to help you create a brand that’s not just visible - but memorable for all the right reasons.

This week, we’re diving into a topic that often flies under the radar until it’s too late: Managing Your Online Reputation. In today’s digital-first world, your online presence speaks before you do. Whether you’re attracting clients, collaborators, or new opportunities, your digital footprint shapes how others perceive you - so let’s make sure it’s saying exactly what you want.

Deep Dive: Your digital footprint - more than just a profile

Your online reputation is the sum of everything people can find about you on the internet - social media, websites, interviews, articles, comments, and even old blog posts you might have forgotten about. It’s like your brand’s shadow: always there, even when you’re not actively managing it.

So, how do you ensure your digital footprint aligns with your personal brand? Here’s how:

• Google yourself - regularly Yes, seriously. Open an incognito browser and search your name. What shows up on the first page? Are these results aligned with how you want to be perceived? If not, you’ve got work to do.
• Audit your social media profiles Your LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter—any platform you’re active on—should reflect your current brand. Outdated bios, inconsistent messaging, or even old posts that don’t align with your values can send mixed signals.
• Consistency is key Consistency doesn’t mean posting the same thing everywhere—it means your core message, tone, and values are clear across all platforms. This builds trust and recognition with your audience.
• Engage thoughtfully What you comment on, share, or endorse contributes to your online reputation. Before hitting ‘post,’ ask yourself: “Does this align with my brand values?”
• Own your narrative The best way to manage your online reputation is to create content that reflects who you are. Blog posts, articles, podcasts, or even thoughtful LinkedIn posts help you control the narrative and showcase your expertise.

Spotlight Success: Anne Boden

Anne Boden, the founder of Starling Bank, is a standout example of managing an online reputation with precision and purpose. As a trailblazing entrepreneur in the traditionally male-dominated fintech industry, Anne has built not just a business but a personal brand rooted in innovation, resilience, and authenticity.

How she manages her online reputation:

1. Clear, consistent messaging: Anne’s online presence reflects her expertise in digital banking and leadership. Whether through LinkedIn posts, interviews, or keynote speeches, her messaging consistently highlights themes of disruption, financial inclusion, and entrepreneurship.
2. Thought leadership: Anne leverages platforms like LinkedIn and X to share industry insights, personal reflections on leadership, and updates on Starling’s growth. This positions her as both an industry expert and an accessible thought leader.
3. Owning her story: In her book Banking On It, Anne openly shares the challenges she faced while launching Starling, including overcoming industry skepticism. This transparency adds depth to her brand, making her story relatable to aspiring entrepreneurs.

The Result:

Anne has cultivated an online reputation that blends authority with authenticity. She’s seen as a visionary leader who challenges the status quo, yet she remains relatable through her candid storytelling and genuine engagement with her audience. This has not only elevated her personal brand but also strengthened Starling Bank’s reputation as an innovative, customer-first company.

Your Next Move

1. Audit Your Digital Footprint Google your name and review the first two pages of results. Are they aligned with your current brand? Make a note of any outdated content you can update or remove.
2. Refresh Your Social Profiles Update your LinkedIn, Instagram, and other key platforms with consistent messaging, fresh visuals, and current accomplishments.
3. Create Content That Reflects Your Expertise Write a LinkedIn post, blog article, or record a short video that highlights your knowledge, values, or personal journey. This helps push your own content higher in search results.
4. Be Proactive, Not Reactive Your online reputation isn’t just something to “fix” when there’s an issue. Ongoing, proactive management is key. Set a reminder to review and update your online presence every quarter.

Final Reflections

Your online reputation is one of your most valuable assets. It’s often the first impression people have of you—and in business, first impressions count. Managing your digital footprint isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being intentional.

This is exactly why we cover it in my Iconic Impact program - we focus on how to build a personal brand that not only stands out but feels authentic, aligned, and iconic. We dive deep into your unique brilliance, online presence, messaging, and visibility strategies to ensure you’re not just part of the conversation - you’re leading it.

Are you ready to own your narrative and elevate your brand? Book in your free Brand Accelerator Call here:

https://link.expertspace.io/widget/bookings/your-brand-accelerator

Until next time,

Vicky x