Don’t lie. I know you’ve done it. We all have and should. No I’m not talking about picking your nose (come on now grow up) … I’m talking about Googling Yourself.

According to December 2009 research commissioned by Microsoft, only 29% of job seekers (in the US) are very/somewhat concerned with their online reputation, yet 79% of recruiters are reviewing candidates online reputation.

Yikes! What does this disparity mean to you? If you aren’t in the 29% that care then you need to be and if you are already concerned then take time to optimize your online reputation.

Take the time and see what your Google results say about you. One of my friends did not take the time to Google herself before a job interview for a company that focuses on search. Guess what her interviewer found? Her full name was used in a blog post that contained photos that she would have never wanted to share with a coworker. While it was an embarrassing situation for her it fortunately didn’t cost her the job. She was able to describe to the recruiter what measures she would take in order to clean up her online reputation and it actually helped her get the job!

What happens when I Google myself? My online reputation clearly communicates my accomplishments including some of my past corporate blogs, social profiles and social network content. My favorite item on my search results is a listing for Corporate Blogging for Dummies available in India.

I challenge you to Google yourself and take the time to clean up your online reputation.

References: Image & research commissioned by Microsoft prepared by Cross-Tab Marketing Services