By: Mallory Cornell, IIAW Vice President

This article was originally published in the May 2022 Wisconsin Independent Agent

Many of you have been participants in my E&O Risk Management courses and have heard me discuss the importance of a Social Media Policy. Perhaps you’ve even requested a sample template from me. Whether it’s a reminder or an introduction, giving employees guidance for how you want them to represent the agency when they’re online is crucial.

What is the purpose of a Social Media Policy?

The primary functions of a Social Media Policy are to: guarantee a constructive relationship between the organization and its employees, manage risk and preserve the agency’s reputation, discourage the use of company time for personal social media activities, and promote awareness among employees of how their personal information can be accessed and interpreted online.

Why do we need one?

It is important to provide guidance on several aspects of utilizing social media. From everything to defining what “social media” includes to how the individual should represent (or not represent) the agency and the agency brand. As an example, the agency would identify topics such as: do not impersonate the agency or its employees, make statements on behalf of the agency without authorization, or make statements that can be construed as establishing the agency’s official position or policy on any particular issue.

How do I get one?

Just ask! Your friends at the IIAW can provide a sample Social Media Policy for you to tailor to your agency needs and implement within your organization. The sample document outlines the basic needs of the agency. It also includes a place for an employee to acknowledge they’ve received and reviewed the Social Media Policy. This document should be a part of every employee’s personnel file and reviewed on an annual basis.

Reach out today for your complimentary copy of an agency Social Media Policy or any other template you may need to create or update.