The Slippery Slope of Personal Information Online and Sites That Profit From It - CareerEnlightenment.com

In October of 2013, Google announced an algorithm change that downgraded the many different mug shot websites that structure themselves for the practice described above. Google is allowed to alter their results and change their algorithm at will, but some question if targeting specific sites that are not doing anything that is technically illegal is the “right” thing to do.Granted, these sites are not spreading positivity and what they do is bordering on crossing the line of privacy, as well as extortion. So it is not like anyone (other than the site owners) wants them around making money off of people’s misfortune. Mastercard has also frowned upon this activity and has stopped allowing them to accept Mastercard as a form of online payment.However, the question still remains, should Google be dictating what we can and cannot see in search results? If they curb these types of websites, then who’s next?Manage Your Own Online ReputationAt the very least, Google’s ranking smack down of mug shot websites means that it will be easier for you to control your online information and build the reputation that you want to be known for in your professional career. Here are some tips for taking control of your own search results and having an excellent showing the next time a potential employer “Googles” you.Fill Out Social Media Profiles:  Even though most of your social media channels are private and only your “friends” can see what you post, the profile section is still public. Fill in all the fields and use a professional looking photo. Your profile photo is public and can be seen by anyone.Get Your Free Personal Websites:  There are several different websites  like About.Me and ItsMyURLs that are free.  Set yourself up with each of them and fill in all of the fields they ask for. Add in as much personal and professional details that you want everyone to see. Remember these are public web pages, not private social profiles.Update Your Google Profile:  Your Google profile is now attached to Google Plus and that should be filled out completely with as much information as you can think of, make yourself look professional. You never know which connection might help you get a job.Take Full Advantage of LinkedIn:  LinkedIn is the professional social network. Your other social channels can keep up appearances for you, but LinkedIn is where you can network, post your resume, and many people find jobs there. If youd like to attract top employers to your LinkedIn profile, check out Joshuas LinkedIn Writing Service.