Digital Footprint - Why It Matters

Everything you post, like, comment on, or share online becomes part of your digital footprint. Whether its on Instagram, TikTok, X, Snapchat, or any other platform, your online activity helps to create a picture of who you are.

Many employers, universities, post-secondary institutions, and even scholarship organizations may look at a person’s online presence before making decisions. While they aren’t expecting perfection, they often look for signs that someone is responsible, respectful, and able to make good decisions.

Before posting something online, ask yourself: “Would I be comfortable if a future employer, teacher, coach, or family member saw this?” Once something is shared online, it can be difficult, or even impossible to completely remove it. Taking a few minutes to review your privacy settings, remove old posts that don’t reflect who you are today, and think before you post can make a big difference.

Here are a few simple ways to manage your digital footprint:

-          Think before you post, comment, or share anything

-          Remove or archive old posts that no longer reflect who you are today

-          Be respectful and positive when interacting with others online

-          Use social media to highlight your interests, hobbies, achievements, and skills

Your digital footprint is part of your personal brand. It can open doors to opportunities or create challenges depending on how you manage it. Taking a few minutes to think about what you share today can you build a positive online reputation for the future.

Written by Cailey McLaughlin-Nisbet