In today’s digital age, we acknowledge the growing concerns over the misuse of social media, especially for those following regulated programmes. The College of Animal Welfare is committed to providing resources and support to ensure that our students navigate social media responsibly, upholding the integrity of their respective programmes.
- It is important to always maintain a professional tone and demeanour in your social media posts. Avoid sharing personal or sensitive information that could reflect poorly on your professional reputation.
- Familiarise yourself with the code of conduct or ethics guidelines relevant to your profession. Ensure that your social media activity aligns with these standards.
- Review and adjust your privacy settings to control who can see your posts and other activity on social media platforms. Limiting access to your content can help protect your professional reputation.
- Consider maintaining separate personal and professional accounts on social media platforms. Use your professional account for professional networking and communication, while keeping personal matters private.
- Before sharing anything on social media, consider how it might be perceived by others, including colleagues, clients, and regulatory bodies. Avoid posting anything that could be construed as unprofessional or unethical.
- Be cautious when discussing topics related to your profession, particularly if they involve conflicts of interest or controversial issues. Refrain from engaging in heated debates or arguments that could reflect poorly on your professional judgment.
- Treat others with respect and professionalism in your interactions on social media. Avoid making derogatory or offensive comments, even in jest, as these can damage your professional reputation.
- Regularly monitor your online presence and search results to ensure that nothing potentially damaging or inappropriate appears. Take steps to address any issues promptly if they arise.
- If you’re unsure about whether a particular post or activity on social media could raise concerns about your fitness to practice, seek guidance from a mentor, supervisor, or professional association.
- Stay informed about best practices for professional conduct on social media by participating in continuing education courses or workshops offered by your professional association.
As always, we encourage you to stay connected with us and share your updates and achievements. Your ongoing support and engagement are invaluable to our community.
Wishing you continued success and fulfilment in all your endeavours.