Social Media Governance & Best Practices

Bill Reichart passed along a great resource via twitter today. It is an online database of social media governance (i.e. guidelines and best practices) from several different organizations. This would be a great place to start for those writing one for your church.

Why does a church need this? For several reasons:

1. It helps church staff realize that whether they like it or not, they represent the church. Their blogs or use of social media (even with disclaimers) can both positively and negatively affect the church.

2. To help distinguish between official (church sponsored) and unofficial (non-church sponsored) use of social media.

3. Educate church staff on how they should respond to negative posts or conversations regarding the church and how to alert the appropriate church staff so appropriate action can be taken (if any).

4. Provide church staff a clear understanding of what is confidential vs public knowledge as it pertains to official church business.

Does your church have a social media plan?