Alpha

Zeta Sorority Inc.

Social Media Policy
Katie Walker
February 28, 2019
COM 511



Introduction
Today, social media has changed the way information is exchanged and shared. The
use of social media can be both beneficial and harmful depending on the fashion of its
use. Alpha Zeta Sorority Inc. acknowledges this and presents a policy for its members to
adhere to.

Why This Policy Exists

This policy exists to ensure that each and every member, regardless of position, utilize
all social media platforms in a manner that effectively represents both the individual and
organization of Alpha Zeta Sorority Inc.

Although social media is a tool, especially for young professionals, it can also damage or
harm the operations or status of the individual or organization as a whole if used
inappropriately.

Policy Scope

Alpha Zeta’s social media policy pertains to each member of the sorority. This, to an
extent, includes active members, new members and alumnae.

This policy does not have a limited time frame, as members are expected to represent
the organization appropriately 24/7 both in reality and on the Internet.

For the purposes of this policy, social media may refer (but is not limited) to:

• Popular social networks such as Twitter and Facebook

• Photo-sharing websites such as Instagram and VSCO

• Professional social networks such as LinkedIn

• Review systems such as Facebook and Google Reviews

Basic Advice and General Guidelines

Whether Alpha Zeta members are posting on private or public accounts, the general
guidelines below are encouraged.

Adhere to these standards to avoid common social media mistakes:

• Remember that everyone can see what you post, including potential members
and non-members. Be sure to keep all organizational activities in a positive light.

• Keep in Mind that you lose almost all control over pictures and content after it is
shared. Screenshots can continue to circulate even after the original post is
removed.

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• Be appropriate by not sharing pictures or content that demonstrates behavior

inconsistent with the values or policies of Alpha Zeta Sorority Inc.

• Disclosure. Make sure that you are not disclosing chapter information this isn’t
meant for anyone outside of the chapter to know.

• Think before posting. This is the golden social media rule. Not only should you
check grammar and spelling, but ensure there won’t be any negative effects of
posting a status update. These include creating arguments and divulging
sensitive information.

Use of Company Social Accounts

Alpha Zeta Inc. social media accounts must only be used and created by authorized
individuals for the purpose of meeting defined organizational goals.

Goals and Purposes of Company Social Media Accounts

As the social media landscape quickly changes and evolves, we encourage members to
think about new ways to use company accounts.

However, account activity should not stray from the organizations goals of engaging with
potential members, members and other various members of the community. We aim to
share our organization and build quality relations with the networking world around us.

Members can typically meet these goals by:

• Sharing photos and information about events, both upcoming and past.

• Share notable happenings of Alpha Zeta organization and its members.

• Promoting the organization’s philanthropies and philanthropic events

• Encourage engagement from the local community both online and on campus

• Establish an open line of communication between the organization and

community

Approved Users

Only approved users may access Alpha Zeta Sorority Inc. social media accounts to
perform the aforementioned tasks.

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The chapter President will grant authorization. She will do so when a member is voted
into the position of Public Relations Chair by the chapter.

The chapter president may also have access to the social media accounts of Alpha Zeta,
but the number of approved users is limited to keep content and representation
consistent to one voice.

Creating Social Media Accounts Under Alpha Zeta’s Name

The action of creating an account on any social media platform in the name of Alpha
Zeta Sorority Inc. is prohibited.

If members see an opportunity to grow on a particular platform, they are to present it to

the President or current Public Relations Chair.

Inappropriate Uses
All of the following are considered inappropriate and are tied to consequence:

• Do not use photos or other representation of any kind of alcoholic beverages,

generic or brand, in connection with the sorority, directly or indirectly.

• Do not use distasteful or offensive material. This includes but is not limited to
photos, audio, graphics, or written words/captions.

• Do not use explicit or vulgar language, photos and graphics, including nudity and
profanity.

• Do not share any confidential information. This includes information about rituals
and chapter meetings.

• Do not use incorrect terminology. Example: new member, not “pledge”.

• Do not use logos, graphics, data or other content that has a registered trademark
without permission or crediting original owner.

• Do not share photographs or images that place own self-image or image of

others in poor taste.

Policy Enforcement
Members who violate this social media policy will face disciplinary action. Depending on
the nature and severity of the violation, the consequences can vary.

Alpha Zeta Sorority Inc. reserves the right to monitor how social networks are used
among its members.

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Alpha Zeta Sorority Inc. reserves the right to terminate the membership of an individual if
deemed necessary.

If needed, Alpha Zeta Sorority Inc. may involve law enforcement officials and agencies.

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