Professional Standards: Social Media and
Professionalism
Will PatchManchester University
Associate Director for Admissions OperationsSocial Media Coordinator
Welcome to Our Profession!
This is a professional career This is more than a job A job is something you do to earn money. A career is a series of related opportunities to
advance and grow. A job feeds your bank account, a career your soul.
Social media blurs lines It has the ability to help or hinder your career
Welcome to Our Profession!
In today’s short time, let’s talk about… Your Personal Brand Being Your Best Professional Self Your professional Development
Your Personal Brand
Brands
What is their brand purpose?
“At McDonald's, we strive to be more than just a restaurant - we're a first job for many, a community
partner, a model for other restaurants around the world, and a company seeking new ways to fulfill our brand promise of Quality, Service, Cleanliness, and Value.”
What is a Personal Brand?
Your unique combination of strengths, skills, and experiences.
Really, what are your strengths?
Skills and experiences are easy to list Strengths can be misinterpreted
StrengthsFinder from Gallup
http://freestrengthstest.workuno.com/free-strengths-test.html
A Personal Brand…
Tells your compelling story Should show your authentic self Shares your experience Is necessitated by anonymity of online personas
Step 1: Know Yourself
Know your values Know what you’re passionate about Know your strengths
Step 2: Your Story
Step 1 was “who” Where you have been What your vision of growth is When - “Riding into the sunset” moment Why does this matter to you
Step 3: Verify
Look over what you have and ask: Are my values and strengths authentic or
aspirational? Is my story complete and compelling?
Be Your Best Professional Self
Communication
“The way you use language reveals who you are, how you think, and how
you work.” – Nick Corcodilos
If spelling and grammar are a known weakness, ask for help
It’s a good idea to differentiate your communications to your audience
Communication
Communication
Body language is as important as how you use spoken or written language
See Amy Cuddy’s research TED Talk
Body Language
Respect Yourself, Others Will Too
Age can be a boon and a burden Treat yourself as a professional This is not the time to try to dress flashy
Ensure fit Invest in a few good pieces and accessories Take advantage of thrift stores
7 Pillars of Professionalism
1. Embrace the team and serve2. Have integrity and never fear “I don’t know, but I’ll
find out.”3. Own your work4. Respect others, be someone to respect5. Take initiative to improve yourself and others6. Take concern for others7. Keep learning, always
Online Professional
Your online profiles are how you portray yourself when you aren’t there
Make sure it’s a good first impression
Online Professional
Your Profiles
Recommended not to use 1 account for your personal and professional relationships Some offices prefer you not to use social media
to communicate, check first Take advantage of security and privacy settings!
2 accounts, or just professional Consider using 1 network just for professional,
and another just for personal
Privacy Online
Facebook Post level or profile level Posts and photos can be set individually
Privacy Online
Facebook Profile level can hide portions or your entire
profile
Privacy Online
Twitter and Instagram More simple, either on or off
Privacy Online
Pinterest You can have hidden boards
Privacy Online
Snapchat – Allowing students to follow you can create awkward situations Adding them can make it more awkward
Things to Avoid
Uncomfortable messages from students or parents Refer to your Director immediately, don’t
respond Blurring the lines
Keep relationships professional Casual is ok, but can lead to problems
Professional Profiles
Have a professional photo ready ID photo or headshot from website Consistency looks good
Have bio or professional description ready Describe yourself, your role, and your goals Elevator pitch
Professional Development
The Best Advice
“Be brave enough to start a conversation that matters.” – Margaret Wheatley
Professional Development
IACAC Spring Congress Mentorship MMI Web forum at iacac.net
NACAC Website Groups National Conference – Columbus, September 22-24 Journal of College Admission #NACACEAP
Professional Development
LinkedIn groups/Pulse Chronicle of Higher Ed Higher Ed Live About.me
Search by interests Twitter
@IACACIndy @NACAC @NACACWonk @InsideHigherEd @Chronicle
Professional Development
On your campus Connect with faculty and staff If you’re not an alumnus, even more critical to
get to know students Mentorship programs Committees
Thanks!
Welcome to a great career and have a safe travel season!