Do Something! “Google” yourself

Chances are that you use Google (TM) or another search engine on a daily basis – and probably several times a day. What’s the first thing you do when you get a new client or prospect? Most likely, you go to the internet and do a Google (TM) search to see what comes up. You may have done the same with opposing counsel, adversaries, vendors, employers, employees and strategic alliances. You’ve probably used the internet to research others that you might consider doing business with in your law practice or in your personal life. But when was the last time you “Googled” yourself?

If you’re using the internet to research others, what do you think they’re doing when they come into contact with you? Not only are existing clients, potential clients and strategic alliances using search engines to search for services when they don’t already know you, but they’re probably also using those search engines once they’ve met you.

If you have a website, it’s likely that you spent a great deal of time and money to create a web presence that puts your best foot forward. And if new contacts have your business card or your web address, they may look at your website, too. But chances are that they’re also using a search engine like Google (TM) to find out other information about you. What are others saying? Aside from your own website and places that you’ve posted information yourself, where else is information available about you? How much do you know about what else is out there?

Do your own internet search to see what your clients, potential clients and other contacts will see when they put your name into the search box on a search engine. Look at that information from the perspective of:

• A potential client;
• An existing client;
• A potential (or current) employer;
• A candidate for a position at your office;
• Reporters or media sources;
• Strategic alliances.

Does your on-line persona reflect what you want it to? What’s missing that each of the above might want to find? What can you do to enhance or improve the information that is available?

Check back periodically – the internet is constantly changing. Stay on top of it.