Elizabeth Johnson | Focus/Design
Students should keep their digital footprint clean and refined. Our internet and social media presence makes an impact on our future — good or bad. Because whether or not we like it, professionalism begins now.
Your digital footprint is a record of content one has created or engaged with online. As scary as it is to think about, putting content online is a permanent action. It may seem impermanent, but things on the internet never fully go away.
One of the most relevant ways to maintain our digital footprint as college students is to watch what you post and where you post it.
While I’m glad you’re having fun now, you may not have as much fun later when you’re struggling to get a job.
According to a digital footprint guidebook created by the National Protective Security Authority, “86% of internet users have taken steps online to reduce their digital footprints.”
The guidebook goes on to express the permanent nature of the internet. Whether it’s a comment, a caption, a review or a post, once something is shared on the internet, it’s there forever.
This also goes the same for direct messages. Although the idea is to send an individual a message directly and exclusively, don’t take for granted that your privacy is always guaranteed. Some memories are better left between you and your friends — or maybe — even between you and yourself.
While I love a good roommate photoshoot, be aware that posting addresses can put you in a potentially dangerous situation.
The good news is, an alternative exists. Although you should still be cognizant of creating any content that can be considered obscene or harmful, a private story or a ‘close friends’ story are great platforms that I use for pictures that are fit for friends and not future employers.
Maintaining a clean digital footprint doesn’t just mean shielding public image for the sake of professionalism. It includes maintaining cyber security and protection from identity theft and stalking.
Remember to be mindful of what you post. Your future self will thank you later.
