The Importance of Your Online Presence

A digital footprint refers to the trail of data we leave behind every time we use the internet. This includes every social media post, purchases, comments, or even visits to any website. In the modern day most everything is connected to the internet, intensifying the need to be reflected on positively by our online presence. Our digital footprints reflect who we are and how other online will perceive us. A positive digital footprint is important as it can shape careers, social interactions, and your reputation. This further read will explore what a digital footprint is, why it is import to maintain a positive one, and how to manage or create one.

Postitive digital footprints are intentinal reflections of someone online in a thoughtful and useful way, meant to enhance someones reputation. This incudes sharing content valuable to you, whilst maintaining privacy, and engaging with others respecfully online. Examples of this being sharing hobbies, or creating a digital portfolio. But all while being mindfull of what personal infomation you are sharing. With the extent of internet now, “A person’s online footprint is becoming an increasingly important part of their online brand.” (Jagler). Meaning that digital footprints are truly a source of representation now.

A positive digital footprint is significant when it comes to your representation, especially when it comes to college applications and job opportunities. Both employers and colleges often review a potential candidates online presence to get a deeper sense of their character. This is noted as “Employers are increasingly making use of Internet search engines to locate and evaluate online information about potential employees.” (Jagler). But by maintaining a positive footprint it will make your application stand out among others as it represents credibility and responsibility.

People can create a positive digital footprint by being mindful of their online presence and privacy while interacting online. This could be by adjusting privacy features and while being mindful of staying respectful. Engaging in constructive behavior, such as sharing your achievements or helping others. Developing a personal portfolio or blog on trusted sites that can showcase your skills and accomplishments. Or even “Social media like Facebook and Twitter can be used in a proactive way to develop a positive online presence.” By using these media platforms thoughtfully and in a useful manner, people can develop an online presence that reflects them in a positive light.

Digital footprints are a representation of who you are. Remember that everyone has access to the information you put out, and use that to your advantage. Maintaining that reputation can provide you with opportunities that you wouldn’t of had otherwise. This maintenance can be done in many ways, conducting yourself thoughtfully, being aware of the information you give out, and to keep in mind you privacy. Positive digital footprints will aid anyone in their growth whether it be personally, career wise, or socially. The importance of a positive footprint is there.