Interviewing for a new job? Think that the recruiter or hiring manager isn't Googling your name or visiting your Facebook profile? Employers no longer use just resumes and references to screen candidates. Learn how to plan ahead for the new online reference checking rules and brand yourself online.

Create a simple web site or blog using your name

Create an internet portal where you control the content. Use this website as a place to list your resume, bio, professional accomplishments, experience and education. 

Search engines rank the most recent and frequent results first, so it's important to continuously post information about your brand.  Your goal is to create relevant information about you that will remain at the top of search pages.

Posting scantily clad pictures of yourself or trashing a colleague online...is stupid behavior

Before you post that provocative picture on Myspace or comment negatively about your competitor on a blog, think about what might surface when someone places your name in Google. Think of the long term consequences of posting pictures, songs or information that might not represent the image of the company that you are applying for.

Position yourself as a thought leader in your industry

Be a recognized innovator in your field. Write articles about common issues and challenges in the marketplace.  Visit your favorite blogs that are related to your career, and post positive comments.  Volunteer your services to non profit organizations that could use your talents to further their cause.

The days when employers ignored your internet image and didn't think your blog comments were important, are long gone.  Employers will use stealth background research tactics to investigate your work history. 

Get ready for your personal information to be researched and investigated prior to your interview. Protect your name and your online reputation.  Remember perception is reality in the online world.

Mechele Pellebon's career advice gives working women the know-how to turn failure into success, and the encouragement to not spend another second in a job they don't absolutely love. Follow Mechele on Twitter and join her network of friends on Myspace and Facebook.

  More knowledge and amusement for your job, career and business obsession below: