How to monitor your online presence
Shape what the internet says about you, without making it a full-time job
A strong digital presence isn’t just about showing up: it’s about knowing what’s out there with your name on it. It’s about listening, responding, and making sure you’re the one shaping the story (not letting old profiles or random mentions do it for you).
You don’t need fancy software or a team.
You just need to check in regularly, know what tools to use, and keep a gentle hand on the steering wheel.
The only free tools that really matter
Google Alerts:
Set up alerts for your name, business, and any key phrases tied to your work. Whenever you’re mentioned online (in news, blogs, or public sites), you’ll get an email. It’s free, takes five minutes, and gives you eyes everywhere.
Google Search Console:
This is your dashboard for how your website shows up in Google results. See what search terms people use to find you, where you rank, and who’s linking to your site. If you have a personal website, this is a must.
Platform Analytics:
Check the stats built into Substack, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube. Look for what people are reading, sharing, or ignoring. You don’t need to chase every number, just keep an eye on what’s connecting and where your real engagement comes from.
What to do when people talk about you online
Sometimes you’ll get glowing reviews, kind words, or mentions that feel like a high five. Sometimes you’ll get criticism or feedback that stings. Both matter.
For good reviews or mentions:
Thank people, publicly or privately.
Share the love: reshare, comment, or mention them back if it feels natural.
For criticism or misunderstandings:
Take a breath before you respond.
Reply with gratitude and clarity. Example:
“Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I hear where you’re coming from, and I appreciate the chance to clarify…”If you made a mistake, simply own it. Example:
“You’re right, I missed that. I’m updating it now. Thank you for pointing it out.”
For unfair attacks or trolls:
Don’t feed the fire. If it’s truly off-base, sometimes silence (or a polite “thank you for your perspective”) is best.
If it crosses the line, use the platform’s reporting tools.
Staying proactive: make this a ritual
Don’t wait for problems or let things gather dust. Every few months, take an hour to do a quick audit:
Search your name and business. What pops up? What needs fixing?
Check your profiles: does anything look old, empty, or out of place?
Review your Google Alerts, site stats, and comments for anything that needs a response.
Make a short list: what to celebrate, what to update, what to let go.
A note on privacy
Respect your own boundaries. If a platform doesn’t feel safe, don’t use it. If you’re collecting emails or personal info, add a simple privacy note. You don’t need to overcomplicate it, just be clear and honest with your readers or clients.
To sum up
You don’t have to be everywhere.
But you do deserve to know what’s being said, how your work is landing, and where you can adjust course.
A little awareness goes a long way in making your online presence truly yours.
Own Your Presence is an ongoing guide to building authentic visibility and authority online. Find every chapter in the series here.
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🔐 Own Your Presence: The Visibility Blueprint
This practical blueprint is designed for multi-passionate professionals, creatives, and anyone tired of visibility advice that doesn’t fit. Download it now.
