Computer World: Web anonymity can sink your job search: Your Web presence can make or break a job application

The whole debate about "do recruiters and hiring managers look candidates up on the web?" (yes, many do) - and "can negative information hurt you?" (yes, if it's really bad) - has gone around and around the last few years.  And if you read the comments of this article, apparently folks are still discussing it. :)

But the real intent of this article ... that when it comes down to applying for roles with web savvy companies which require influence / leadership with other web savvy people,not having a web presence could hurt you ... is a good message to get out.   When I coach jobseekers, the first thing I do is look them up on the web.  There's a lot of companies out there (start-ups, internet based companies, community-focused technology companies, etc) that want to hire people who are already passionate about interacting with others through the internet.  When I find a jobseeker who has no internet presence at all, I usually advise them to do one of these things listed in the article.  It's not only a great way to build an outline portfolio - but these activities can provide valuable experience and maybe help you realize an untapped passion.