Wait, what? Really? A blog post about how to Google yourself correctly? How to Google yourself seems simple and straightforward. You just type in your name. There is a right and wrong way to Google yourself?

Yes.

If you Google yourself consistently (hint: you should do it once a month), you see that what shows up changes over time. As content on the web gets older, Google modifies their algorithms. New content added impacts your search results.

How do you correctly Google yourself?

Here are 3 tips to help you do just that.

1. Set your browser to incognito or private mode and log out of your Google accounts

Why is this important? Because when you use incognito mode when searching via Google, you get results that are not impacted by your search history. Google services that you logged into and other search engine factors personalize your search results such as your location.

2. Use variations of your name, including misspellings

It is critical that you Google yourself in different ways such as your full first name (example: Matthew vs. Matt) and how people may misspell your name (example: Royce instead Royse). There may be other people with your same name so it critical to manage your personal and online reputation.

3. Search the first 5 pages of Google and search for images, video, blogs, and news

You should Google yourself beyond page 1 because you may find “buried” information in later pages. You should search at least through 5 pages. Also, you should also use Google Image search and Google Video search. Determine what other multi-media assets are on the web such your headshot or a video you were in. If you have quoted in an online publication or have a blog, it is important to see those results as well.

Also, you should also use Google Images search and Google Videos search. See what other multi-media assets are on the web such your headshot or a video you were in. If you have quoted in an online publication or have a blog, it is important to see those results as well. Use Google News to find out if you are quoted in a news source or publication.

People are Googling you so it is critical that you understand what they see. This will help you build and manage your personal brand and online reputation. For example, are the search results showing you in a positive light? Is it true or false and is it relevant? Can they find the real you easily? Have you optimized your LinkedIn profile so it is the first search result?

How to Google yourself correctly

For additional tips on how to Google yourself the right way, check out this infographic below by Reputation Management:

This infographic was created by Reputation Management.