Smart Social Media Policies
Progressive businesses now embrace social media to broaden their marketing and increase revenues. They’re eager to reach out to their customers online and engage them in meaningful ways. So;
- What social media guidelines should employees follow?
- How can management weigh social media risks vs. opportunities?
Companies Need Two Social Media Policies
Overall, B2B, B2C, nonprofits and governments find that they need TWO social media policies.
Policy #1: Personal conduct codes for all employees’ access to, and use of, any social media while on company time or computer systems.
Policy #2: Guidelines for employees with any responsibilities that involve social media use.
Social Media Policies Must be SPECIFIC
Management must be thoughtful about clarifying their values and intended use of social media, then translate that into specific authorities and boundaries. For instance, are employees permitted to:
- Access their PERSONAL social networking accounts while on the job?
- Use the organization’s trademarks, such as a logo, when posting content on their social media sites?
- Voice personal opinions on company social media accounts?
- Post without first obtaining permission and/or approval?
Management should clearly define company objectives, conduct codes, usage guidelines, and authorities, then treat these policies similarly to all other HR policies. Have these written policies reviewed by legal counsel, discuss them with employees, give employees a chance to give feedback and ask questions, and be sure to obtain signatures on an agreement page.
Post these policies in places that are easily accessible to employees, and review the policies often. The internet, and social media, change fast. Be sure that your policies do, too.
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For more resources, see our Library topics Marketing and Social Networking.
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ABOUT Lisa M. Chapman: With offices in Nashville Tennessee, but working virtually with international clients, Lisa M. Chapman serves her clients as a business and marketing coach, business planning consultant and social media consultant. As a Founder of iBrand Masters, a social media consulting firm, Lisa Chapman helps clients to establish and enhance their online brand, attract their target market, engage them in meaningful social media conversations, and convert online traffic into revenues. Email: Lisa @ LisaChapman.com