Social media can connect professionals, friends and families, individuals with common interests, and more. The platforms provide an opportunity to share views and ideas and can drastically impact relationships and reputations of both individuals and organizations.
Any employee of SDState is free to publish or comment via social media in accordance with approved guidelines. Publication and commentary on social media platforms carry similar obligations to any other kind of publication or public statement. All uses of social media must follow the same ethical standards that SDSU employees must otherwise follow.
- Think before you post. It is important to understand your audience and recognize that everyone reflects a diverse set of customs, values, and points of view.
- Be honest about your identity and use your real name. You may identify yourself as an SDState employee but establish clearly that the views and opinions expressed are yours alone and do not represent the official views of SDState.
- Protect your privacy and reputation by understanding that a post may remain public forever, even if removed online. Screenshots live forever.
- A disclaimer stating whom you work for and that you are not speaking officially does not necessarily grant you legal freedom. Always consider the possible consequences of what you are posting.
- Do not post confidential information about work and certain activities at South Dakota State, and respect laws governing copyrighted material owned by others and its fair use or fair dealing, including SDSU's own copyrights, registrations and brands.
- Faculty, staff, students, alumni, or business partners should not be cited or referenced without their approval, unless the reference is to an official communication released by the University.