It seems like PR and marketing professionals are always plugged in: every device must be Wi-Fi-enabled, emails come at all hours of the day, and smartphones are almost a necessity.

Technology can make our lives easy and convenient, but you need to be smart. Here are eight smart tech tips for the fall:

1. Make relevant updates: Smart phone operating systems update every few months, and updating can do wonders for your phone’s productivity. Check to see if your phone is due for a system update. Android recently updated to Ice Cream Sandwich and Apple’s iOS 6 is making its debut in a few short weeks.

2. Change your passwords: Changing the passwords for all of your accounts can be daunting, but it’s imperative to switch them up periodically for your safety. Keep passwords in a safe, secret place to make the process less overwhelming.

3. Out with the old: During college I would rid my computer of old files after every semester. This is a habit I still do, even after graduation. Eliminate unused documents to help your computer run faster and more efficiently. This can apply to smart phone and tablet apps as well.

4. Clean up your social media accounts: Now’s a good time to untag yourself from those less-flattering Facebook photos, remove inappropriate posts, and update your LinkedIn profile. This is especially important if you’re looking for a job or internship.

[RELATED: What job seekers should—and should not—post on social media]

5. Back up your data: We never remember to back up our information until it’s already gone. Pick up an external hard drive to have in case of a tech emergency.

6. Be wary of location-based apps: Be careful about the information you enter on location-based services as they can reveal a trove of private information. Be sure to change your privacy settings if you have the option.

7. Get a backup battery: App usage can drain battery power on mobile devices, especially our phones. If you rely on apps, make sure you have a backup battery in case the other one runs out of juice.

8. Start a (pleasant) digital footprint: In PR, a small but positive digital footprint is a great way to build credibility. Be active on social media, start a blog, etc.—the options are endless. Any other tips can you think of?

Lauren Silverman is an account coordinator at Crenshaw Communications. A version of this story first appeared on the PR Fish Bowl blog.

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