Brand Toolkit

The keys to success in social media are being honest about who you are, being thoughtful before you post, and respecting the purpose of the community where you are posting.

1. Be authentic and transparent: Be honest about your identity. Never hide your status to promote the University through social media. When voicing your opinion in the public domain on University matters, please ensure that you include a statement declaring that these are your personal opinions, e.g. "The views expressed here are the author's own, and do not necessarily reflect those of the University of Glasgow."
   
   If you associate yourself with an institution or funder in your X bio, you must reflect that your comments carry some weight. Speak within your expertise (see guidance from professional bodies below). Consider adding ‘Own posts’ or ‘Posts my own’ to your X bio.
   
   Some professions require you to disclose your name, e.g. The General Medical Council (GMC) states that if you identify yourself as a doctor online it is best practice, but not mandatory, to also give your name. For the GMC, identifying yourself as a doctor when discussing health and healthcare issues (as opposed to other topics) gives weight and credibility to your views. They may also be taken to represent those of the profession more widely. Ultimately though, it is a matter for your own judgement. 
   
   
2. Be accurate: Make sure that you have all the facts before you post. It's better to verify information with a source first than to have to post a correction or retraction later. Cite and link to your sources whenever possible. If you make an error, correct it quickly and visibly. This will earn you respect in the online community.
   
   
3. Consider your audience: Social media often span traditional boundaries between professional and personal relationships. Use privacy settings to restrict personal information. Choose profile photos and avatars carefully. Be thoughtful about the type of content you publish — would you be happy if you saw it attributed to yourself at a later date?
   
   
4. Respect copyrights and fair use: Always attribute content you have replicated, or ensure you have the rights to use it.
   
   
5. Consider data protection issues: Don’t release personal information or images of other people without their consent. Protect confidential and proprietary info. Do not post sensitive or proprietary information about the University, your students or your fellow employees. For more information, see Data Protection & Ethics.
   
   
6. Think about sensitive or potentially controversial research: Consider how it could be misinterpreted, and if addressing the public on such areas, take advice from the Communications & Public Affairs Office.
   
   When discussing animal research, speak to your local Home Office Licence manager before posting images of animal housing. The University has a policy of openness in animal research.
   
   
7. Think about your intellectual property and commercially sensitive information: Ensure you do not disclose proprietary information about your research or that of a third party without their permission. Take advice from your College Business Development Manager, University’s Contracts Team or University IP Manager if you are concerned about discussing commercially sensitive information or contracts.