The job market is wide open, but that doesn’t mean you’re in the clear when it comes to bagging the perfect position. Today, employers scrutinize everything you do and say during the interview, and have no problems looking at your online history before making a decision. Here’s how to stay ahead of the game when hunting for a new job.

The internet offers a glimpse into your past

Before the internet, the things we did and said didn’t follow us to the grave. But life is different now, and even a minor social snafu is enough to cancel an interview. Your online reputation is something you must consider before applying for a job, or even starting your own business.

Employers interested in bringing you on will almost certainly search for you online. If your name brings up anything that can be viewed as negative or irresponsible, you’ll likely find yourself continuing the job search. And if you’ve been unfairly targeted, like the many people showcased on Syfy’s The Internet Ruined my Life, your name has been dragged through the mud and stained for eternity. Or maybe not. Hate groups, ex-lovers, and former employers often post negative information in response to an issue. If this information is false, and you can identify the attacker, you can try working with an online reputation management company, which may be able to force the removal of unflattering content.

Don’t go into an interview with the scars on your reputation. Your dream job may depend on it.

Uncomfortable is the new norm

If having your potential employer spying on you isn’t alarming enough, interviewers are more and more often choosing to ask uncomfortable questions throughout the process. This may be to gauge an individual’s poise or whether they crumble under pressure. Whatever the reasons, it pays to be prepared. Your responses could mean the difference between an open door and a missed opportunity. Common job interview questions typically revolve around why you want to work in a certain location, your weaknesses, your future aspirations, and reasons for leaving your most recent job.

In addition to intense questioning, your interviewers will look at your actions before and during the interview to feel you out. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and show up with your portfolio, resume, and any other documents or work samples to support and showcase your experience.

Honesty is the best policy

If you’ve managed to make it through round one, and are lucky enough to be called in for a second interview, things may be a little easier, but that doesn’t mean you should be completely at ease. By your second interview, your future new bosses may be comfortable enough to dip into more personal details, even if casually. Answer any questions they may have honestly and don’t be afraid to admit that you have weaknesses, but be sure to underscore your strengths.

Yes, it’s okay to follow up

It’s been three days since your job interview and your palms are starting to sweat. That’s perfectly normal and to be expected. But how long should you wait before picking up the phone to follow up? Should you follow up at all? The answer is yes. But, the way you execute this uninitiated communication matters. Chron’s Cynthia Measom says it takes finesse, and she asserts that you should wait at least one week before calling or emailing. Keep in mind that even if you are told the position has been filled, a positive and gracious acceptance followed up by an invitation to contact you should they have something that fits your qualifications in the future is a welcome gesture that shows integrity.

20 years ago, all it took was a well-pressed suit, a confident smile, and academic and professional credentials to get a job. Things have changed. If you want to continue to move up the career ladder, you have to start by putting your best foot forward, both online and in person.