Admit it, you've Googled yourself, and if not, you probably will in the near future. An increasing amount of people search for their own name in Google searches to see what type of information comes up. A recent report showed 47% of US adult web users have searched for themselves, up from 22% in 2002. While this jump seems significant, chances are, the real numbers are a lot higher still.
In addition to seeing what comes up under their own details, they're looking up friends, family, colleagues, employers, competitors and even potential mates to gain as much insight as they can.
Having good Googleability also comes hand-in-hand with bragging rights in today's wired society. Among teens, the Googling trend is even higher, although there aren't any relevant stats to back it up. Sound sketchy? The good news is that the report showed teens are actually a lot of more cautious than adults as to what information they make available on social networking profiles.
New parents are catching on to the importance of having Googleable names:
Self-Googling on the Rise
47% Search Their Own Name
Trend Themes
1. Increased Personal Online Searches - Opportunity for businesses to optimize their online presence and reputation management services.
2. Expanded Interest in Online Personal Branding - Offers potential for personal branding consultants to help individuals build and manage their online image.
3. Growing Teenage Googling Trend - Openings for platforms that provide safe and controlled ways for teenagers to manage their online presence.
Industry Implications
1. Online Reputation Management - Demand for services that help individuals and businesses maintain a positive online image.
2. Personal Branding Consulting - Opportunity for experts to assist individuals in building and managing their personal brand online.
3. Social Media Management for Teens - Potential for platforms specifically designed to help teenagers navigate and control their online presence.