Just as consumers are becoming more and more aware of their environmental footprint so too are they becoming increasingly aware of their digital footprint.
And with that awareness comes concerns about the lack of controls available to manage it. We’re realizing that as society grows more comfortable using the web to learn about each other, our public records, data, photos, videos, and blogs may paint a picture that is less than safe, accurate or flattering.
In a recent survey by Harris Interactive around 90% of Americans indicated they wanted more control over the information that is available about them online. I suspect that, in this case, Americans are speaking for all of us.
Because people use websites and search engines to find out information about others, the fact is that our online identity is now as important as our “offline” personal or professional reputation.
It is starting to dawn on us how much information about ourselves is online and that this information is impacting how others view us. In the survey:
* 78% said they believe it is very important to look up information about people and/or businesses online before deciding to interact or do business with them;
* 74% claimed they would most likely refuse to interact or do business with a person or company if they found negative information about them online;
* 69% stated that they would be much more likely to interact with someone on a personal level if they found positive information about them online.
It means that every company and every individual must participate in the online world if only to present their side of the story. Increasingly, our online reputation is becoming the means by which we are judged and potentially the major determinant of our future success. That online reputation cannot be left to chance nor can it safely be left in the hands of others.
What a great project. It's a simple idea but quite profound. Thanks for linking to this Mike - I'm interested in getting a copy now!
Posted by: gclub | 09/22/2011 at 07:12 PM
Good day! this is one of the most interested statement I have heard anyone said. I have always say to myself there are no rules telling us what to do, but rules telling us what not to do. We need to start making rules telling us what to do and we will see how creative our world would be. thanks,
Posted by: shopping reviews | 10/27/2011 at 03:26 PM
Great idea...you have some of my favorite people contributing to your blog. I enjoy it a great deal. I'm still working out how to do links neatly but in the meantime will keep it as a post...up now.
Posted by: stock item | 10/28/2011 at 03:25 PM
Great post! It saws strong argument to refer to the open innovation movement in government. This explanation would require far fewer friends outside this arena and is generally well accepted.
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Posted by: home improvement | 09/01/2013 at 06:26 AM