Your CV is NOT the document you share.

In today's highly connected world, your online presence has become an integral part of your personal brand and can significantly impact your professional success. Your resume, once limited to a physical document or an online profile, has now expanded beyond the confines of a standard application, and is now largely determined by your web presence - what appears on the first page of Google search results when someone looks for you? When we search for you online, what do we see? That is your resume.

It's important to remember that everything you post online, stays online. I remember the story of the young man who posted something negative about a bank some years ago, and he was reminded of his tweet during an interview, and of course he wasn’t offered the job. This is not to say that?everyone should be judged by their past, but a seemingly harmless post from years ago can come back to haunt you, and potentially cost you job opportunities. This is why it is essential to be cautious about what you post on social media platforms, as employers and potential clients are increasingly using these platforms to screen job candidates.

To create a positive and professional web presence, being active on social media platforms like LinkedIn is crucial. These platforms provide a space for you to connect with others in your professional network, share your work and thoughts, and engage in meaningful conversations. However, it is important to be mindful of the content you share, and to be cautious of what you post, as anything that is inappropriate or controversial can have a negative impact on your reputation.

Having a personal website is also an excellent way to showcase your skills and accomplishments. ‘About Me’ by Google is a free tool you could use to create one, and other similar services that make it easy to create a professional-looking website, even if you have no prior experience with web design. Your website can serve as a central hub for your online presence, where potential employers and clients can find out more about you and what you have to offer.?

Writing a blog on a topic that you are passionate about or starting a newsletter can also help you establish your expertise and build a following. This not only helps you connect with others who share your interests, but also showcases your knowledge and skills to a wider audience.

In conclusion, your online presence is no longer a luxury in the job market, but rather a necessity. With more and more opportunities becoming distributed and digital, it is essential to take control of your virtual resume and ensure that the world sees the best version of you. However, it is equally important to be mindful of the content you share on social media and to be cautious of what you post, as it can have serious consequences for your professional life. So go ahead, take a look at your web presence today, and start working on creating a better and more professional one.

In all you do, remember to UNMUTE YOUR MIC and GO GLOBAL.

Written by Temitope Okeseeyin