When most people think about their net worth, they focus on tangible assets—income, investments, maybe even crypto if they’re feeling spicy. But in today’s hyper-connected world, there’s one asset that quietly affects everything from your business deals to your borrowing power: your online reputation.
Think about it—before anyone lends you money, offers you a job, or signs a deal with your company, they Google you. And what they see can either reinforce their confidence… or raise red flags.
The Financial Cost of a Bad Reputation
Let’s say someone Googles you and the first thing that pops up is a lawsuit, a one-star Glassdoor review, or a hit piece from years ago. Even if it’s outdated or misleading, it can damage your credibility instantly. A damaged reputation can lead to:
- Lost job opportunities
- Higher interest rates or loan denials
- Investor hesitation
- Declined partnerships or speaking invites
All of this can snowball into tens—or even hundreds—of thousands of dollars in lost opportunities.
Reputation Management = Financial Strategy
At BrandYourself, we believe protecting and improving your search results is a legitimate financial strategy. Here’s why:
- Positive Online Presence Builds Trust: When people see consistent, professional content about you across search results—articles, thought leadership, branded profiles—it builds instant trust. Trust = deals closed faster.
- You Control the Narrative: Bad results don’t have to dominate your first page forever. Through SEO-optimized properties like websites, press, and social profiles, you can push down the bad and spotlight the good.
- You Increase Visibility for Investors, Clients, and Partners: A strong personal brand (and Google presence) opens doors to new opportunities, from media features to funding rounds.
Bottom Line
A great credit score might help you buy a house. But a great Google score—i.e., your online presence—helps you build an empire. So if you’re thinking long-term wealth, it’s time to think beyond just the numbers and start investing in your name.