Responsible Social Networking for Students

The Web facilitates connectedness, and social networking sites help create community. People are able to connect with each other and share information and ideas in an open environment. Traditional-aged college students use different communication tools from their boomer, genX, and genY predecessors, especially when it comes to social networking. Electronic communications never go away and can follow students for life; therefore, students need to be aware of the potential problems that can be created if communications become public at some point in their lives. The university wants to help students communicate wisely, safely, and with professionalism. Students should use their tech-savvy skills to their advantage.

Students can make their social networking pages work for them. Here are a few tips.

• Market yourself—select your profile information carefully and think about what employers are looking for in their new hires. Showcase your leadership and campus activities (i.e., student organizations, athletics, fundraising, community service)
  
  
• Pay attention to your language/wording—use spell check and make sure that you show a high level of written communication skills
  
  
• Think long term—your Facebook page is not an isolated site.  Make sure that the pictures and language on your profile, as well as those connected through your friends, present a positive image
  
  
• Be smart—use the appropriate privacy settings if you do not want people other than your friends to view your profile

UWF Social Networking Sites

UWF @ Facebook

UWF @ YouTube

UWF @ Twitter

UWF @ Flickr

Questions & Answers

Q: Is it legal for an employer not to hire me based on what I post on a social networking site?
A: It is only illegal if it is a violation of a federal or state discrimination law such as discriminating based on race, gender, religion, or another protected category.

Q: Is it not my right to use free speech on my personal profile?
A: While you do have the freedom of speech, you also have to be willing to accept the consequences of your speech. If you choose to put out a questionable image or type of message on Facebook, the employer can also choose to make decisions based on that information.

Learn More

Keep Your E-Image Clean

A few more guidelines offered by Southern Connecticut State University