Elevating your digital presence as a student

Back in 2012, as an engineering student preparing for campus placements, my main focus was on crafting a strong resume. At the time, building a digital presence wasn’t even on my radar. Fast forward to 2016, during my MBA, things had changed—recruiters were now looking beyond resumes, and a strong digital presence had become just as important in the recruitment process.

Why does digital presence matter?

Your digital presence is your online reputation. For students, it’s one of the powerful ways to build networks, discover new opportunities, and help shape how others perceive you—even before your career begins.

Your first impression

• Recruiters and admissions officers often review candidates online during their review process.
• A strong digital presence can help you stand out from other applicants.

Networking and opportunities

• Professional Networking Platforms help you connect you with peers, alumni, and industry leaders, helping you stay updated on trends and leading practices in your field.
• These networks can help you find internships, jobs, and academic collaborations. I personally landed live projects through these connections.
• Engaging in online discussions help broadens your knowledge and demonstrates your experience.

Personal branding

• Your digital presence lets you share your story, strengths, and goals, thus allowing you to “weave your own narrative”
• Digital portfolios, blogs, and social profiles are better ways to showcase your work, projects, and extracurricular interests.

How to elevate your digital presence?

1. Analyze your professional profiles
   • Use a professional headshot.
   • Write a headline that reflects your role and interests.
   • Summarize your skills and experiences clearly.
   • Complete all relevant profile sections, including education, skills, and project work.
2. Engage on professional platforms
   • Share relevant content and participate in discussions to boost visibility.
   • Post articles, insights, and updates; connect with your network and alumni.
   • Actively comment on industry topics and participate in webinars.
3. Build a portfolio or website
   • Create a site to highlight your projects and achievements and share it on your profiles.
   • This can be an effective tool to showcase your value proposition and display different skills that you possess, thus allowing others to get a glimpse of your work and help engage with you further.
4. Be authentic
   • Determine your information is genuine and consistent across platforms.
   • Cite sources and be sincere in your interactions.

Tips for managing your digital presence

• Review before posting: Avoid unprofessional or offensive content.
• Be respectful: Keep comments constructive.
• Credit sources: Avoid plagiarism and share correct information.
• Engage positively: Stay respectful and avoid negativity.
• Regularly update your profiles to reflect new skills, experiences, and achievements.
   

My experience

Focusing on my digital presence helped me secure live projects, stay updated on industry trends, and build a strong professional network as a student. As a professional, it led to recognition and various invitations to speak across professional forums.

Why start now?

In today’s world, a strong digital presence is essential. It opens doors, builds your reputation, and keeps you connected. Start by updating your profile and sharing your story—small steps today may lead to big opportunities tomorrow which include but are not limited to expanded career opportunities, personal branding and thought leadership, opportunities for collaboration and influence. It helps build credibility and determines you remain adaptable and visible in a rapidly evolving talent landscape

About the author:

Ritwik is currently a Manager on the National Campus Recruiting Strategy & Programs team at Deloitte US-India Offices (USI). A campus hire himself, he has spent over seven years with Deloitte, focusing on early career programs and university relations. Drawing from his journey from an intern to a manager at Deloitte, he is dedicated to building a strong pipeline of early career talent by supporting campus engagement initiatives, helping students and young professionals launch empowered and impactful careers at Deloitte.