5 tips for curating a career-boosting online presence

By Virginia Coffison – RSL Employment Program

As technology continues to evolve, recruiters and employers rely increasingly on digital platforms to identify, connect and vet potential candidates. 

Let’s take a closer look at the significance of cultivating an effective online presence in your job search and how to manage your digital presence.

LinkedIn is number one

LinkedIn has emerged as the go-to platform for professionals worldwide. Take the time to create a compelling profile with a high-quality professional photo, detailed work history, endorsements and request recommendations from colleagues to enhance credibility. 

Become a leading voice

Establish yourself as a thought leader by interacting regularly with your audience and sharing industry insights, professional experiences and expertise. Demonstrate your passion and interests by engaging with relevant content to showcase your expertise.

What is your personal brand?

Consider your personal brand, including vetting the content, opinions and connections you engage with. Be conscious of what aligns with your own personal ethos and engagement that could negatively impact your career prospects.

Monitor messages and comments, and ensure you reply to everyone. Be mindful to engage with your audience using a professional tone, reflecting the image you want to portray to potential employers.

Develop a consistent online narrative 

While LinkedIn is pivotal, don’t overlook the impact of other social media platforms. Take the time to either develop a consistent narrative across all platforms or keep personal profiles private and unsearchable.

Google yourself 

Employers often conduct online searches to learn more about candidates. Regularly Google yourself to monitor what information is publicly available. 

This allows you to proactively manage and curate your digital presence to ensure it aligns with your professional image. Address any discrepancies promptly and regularly review the content you've shared online, removing or updating any outdated or irrelevant information that may not align with your current career goals.

Your digital footprint plays a role in your post-Defence career goals

The digital landscape plays a pivotal role in shaping your professional trajectory. Cultivating a robust online presence not only amplifies your visibility but allows you to actively curate and control the narrative surrounding your career. 

In a job market driven by technology, your digital footprint can either be a hinderance to your career journey or – by using the tips above – the key to unlocking exciting opportunities.

If you're a veteran looking for a new career path, the RSL Employment Program is tailor made to help ex-serving Defence members and the partners of current or ex-serving Defence members find meaningful employment.