You are your references
Fast Company has an interesting article for those in the jpob market, on how You Are Your References. for many of us the statement Wherever we go, we leave electronic footprints applies, especially bloggers.
I've asked a couple a of people who know me how my blog reflects the person they know. I'd like to get comments about how people perceive me online, both from people who don't know me and people who do. There's enough hints in this blog for googling me (careful, that tickles).
So what should we do? Should we fret and live in fear of our past actions and words coming back to haunt us? I don't think so. There's a bright new opportunity just sitting here, waiting for organizations and individuals to take advantage of it: Spend your future creating your past, starting right now. Live your life out loud, well aware that everything you say can (and will) be used against you (or for you). Treat every customer as though he could turn into a testimonial. Treat every vendor as if she could give you a recommendation. And then, when the time comes, the seeds you've sown will pay off.
Blogs, newsgroups, professional organizations, and all the rest are perfect for someone who wants to leave a vivid, positive trail. You can choose to use the new tools or to become a victim of them.
