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!