ReputationDefender, which is perhaps the best-known reputation-oriented service, charges between $3000 and $10,000 to monitor your reputation. RemoveYourName and Integrity Defenders are a bit cheaper; their packages start at $3000 and $630, respectively. Often the quoted prices are just a starting point. ReputationDefender charges extra, for example, for helping you get rid of unsavory remarks that they uncover.

Here are some key points to remember if you decide to hire an online reputation management company:

If you don't have room in your budget for professional reputation management--or if you've decided that the service doesn't justify the price--you can take on tracking and managing your online reputation by yourself.

Step 1: Track Your Online Presence