The Employers are Coming!

Careerbuilder recently conducted a survey of 2,600 hiring managers to learn more about social networking trends.

The verdict? Over 45% of hiring managers research candidates on-line! That's right, they're checking out your Facebook, myspace, and blog pages to dig up any digital dirt that you haven't cleaned up.

What can you do to make sure you shine on-line?

1. Clean up your own photos and comments, and make sure your friends remove any inappropriate crumbs related to you: The first impression is everything, so make that whatever you have posted is appropriate for your grandmother to see.

2. Build up your positive online presence: You can bury your negative digital dirt by adding positive, professional online material to your repertoire. Join LinkedIn.com or begin a professional blog on blogger.com.

3. Know your score: There are many web sites that rank your hire-ability based on your online presence. Check out Brandyourself.com to see where you rank.

Above all, keep in mind that the online world is public. How you choose to portray yourself is up to you.