Social Media Etiquette and Ethics

In terms of Public Relations, we have a grand code of ethics in which we abide by when communicating in a professional capacity.

Do we need rules when doing the same, but over a much more informal mode of social media? The answer is "yes".

5 Rules of Engagement

• Talking business 100% of the time does not work (there is a right time, pick and choose your moments)
• Social media users do not appreciate being spammed or continually targeted (personal communication tends to spread the messages further)
• Always say who you are, and be clear about your intentions
• People value brands when they know the face who is talking for them
• Be sincere and respectful– word spreads faster than you can even imagine online

Social media has evolved into a tight knit network of people, and is often referred to as the online water cooler discussion. It’s simple and easy to enter these communities, yet it is also just as simple and easy to assume you can act in whatever way you please. If you’re not careful, you can easily damage your personal and/or professional reputation.

Kiwi businesses are latching on to the idea of transparency online. The Vodafone NZ Twitter account clearly indicates that they have a team of 9 who all communicate at any given time. Each member of the team signs off with their initials when posting so the network of Vodafone followers know exactly who is talking.

Other successful Kiwi brands with a “face to the name” are Urgent Couriers, and Giapo Icecream.

“How to make a splash online” details more about local business owners sealing deals, promoting messages, and building relationships through social media.

If you’re prepared to invest the time, then it is a great platform to stronger brand management. Be patient – reaching the centre of the water cooler doesn’t happen overnight!

Written by Jess Miller