So you’ve landed a hot date, or are at least in the process of trying to do so, and realized that maybe just maybe your social media has a little too much red cup action and not enough of the persona you want to put forth to the world. Gentlemen, it’s probably time to clean up your social media accounts and get them date ready; here’s how to do it:
1. Google Yourself… and then Click “Images”
This one might sound obvious, but you’d be surprised how many random results will turn up when you type in your name. There might even be old social media accounts (MySpace or Friendster, anyone?) that you totally forgot you ever had. Yep, the Internet sure doesn’t forget. Oh, and don’t forget to click on over to the “Images” tab to see the scary intelligent Google in its glory. You might think that your Twitter, Facebook, Google+, Instagram and Tumblr images are hard to find… but sometimes they’re really, really not.
2. Adjust Your Facebook Privacy Settings
Remember all those embarrassing photos your friends thought it would be “funny” to tag you in? Just because you didn’t upload them to your own Facebook doesn’t mean they aren’t out there for all the world to see. Manage your Facebook privacy settings, hide tagged photos from your profile and remove any photos you’ve uploaded that you wouldn’t want a new love interest to see. While you’re there, maybe remove any you wouldn’t want a prospective employer to see too. HR employees know how to find the good stuff, so you can never be too careful.
3. Remember Images Speak a Thousand Words
Consider setting your Instagram to private and remember to check that you’re not auto-sharing every single Instagram post to your Twitter, Facebook or any other social media account. Even though a photo might have a ton of likes, ask yourself if it’s really worth keeping it out there for everyone to see? It’s important that you put forth an accurate representation of who you are, but half naked photos featuring you and your hunky ex probably won’t help your dating game. On that note, fully naked photos won’t either.
4. Be Choosy
Moving forward in your ventures onto the World Wide Web, remember to be a little choosier with what you share. Double check your spelling, really take a moment to decide whether or not you want a photo available to millions of people worldwide and remember that just because you’re having a blast tonight doesn’t mean you won’t regret live tweeting the entire thing tomorrow.
In case you’re already in a relationship or aren’t really dating at the moment, this list of social media clean up techniques is also super helpful for job hunting or when your dear mother (or better yet, grandma) decides to send you a friend request. Avoid the sudden panic, the creation of multiple friend’s lists with special viewing permissions and the inevitable accidental over share. Follow these easy steps and you’ll have a better looking online presence in a snap. Or, at least as soon as Google checks for changes and updates their search results. Whichever comes first!
Have you ever shared something online that you’ve regretted?
