Resources

Top 10 tips for being social media savvy

1. Be positive and respectful. Encouragement, appreciation and positivity go a long way in the conversational, highly-networked world of social media.
   
2. Be internet savvy. Do you know the person who followed you or sent you a friend request in real life? Think about the types of things you post on social media – where you go to school, selfies, that expensive item you just bought, when you've gone out, etc. – and consider who you would normally allow to know that information. Posting locations, course timetables or your dorm room number publicly means anyone and everyone can find out where you are – or when your home is left unattended.
3. Protect confidential information. Assume that whatever is posted online, even within a closed network, can and will be shared, stored and spread globally. Don't share personal information online about yourself or others, including Conestoga students, employees, or alumni. Use a range of different passwords so that if one account becomes compromised, your others are still safe.
4. Leaks and hacks can happen. Don't leave your privacy settings on default. Explore the options and check back regularly to see if settings have been updated or changed. While upping your privacy settings is recommended, it's important not to rely on them 100 per cent. Don't upload anything you wouldn't want everyone – your parents, your employer, your teachers – to see.
5. If it's questionable, don't post it. Posts, comments, videos and pictures, even from the distant past, can come back to haunt you even after you've forgotten about them. It's best not to post them in the first place as potential employers will Google your name. Make sure that what they find is what you'd want your future employer to know about you.
6. Keep it clean. Don't post inappropriately about your teachers, classmates, department, colleagues or the college. Concerns with any of the above should be dealt with in an appropriate manner (for more information, consult your Student Handbook). If you post vulgarity and obscene language, assume that it can and will be seen by your teachers, employers or family members. If you wouldn't say it to Grandma, don't say it on social media.
7. Engage with people. The best engagement is meaningful engagement. Be authentic; be yourself; be friendly!
8. Aim for accuracy. Rumours and incorrect information can spread quickly on social media and can have serious ramifications. Make sure you're sure before you post.
9. Sharing is caring. Share content, but don't steal it. Saving a picture, logo or other content and using it as your own is not only inconsiderate - it could be illegal. Give credit where it's due!
10. Take a deep breath before hitting "send." It can be easy to turn to social media to vent about an experience, but first consider the possible consequences for yourself or the person on the receiving end before posting. If you need an outlet, there are free, confidential counselling services available at Conestoga. Bullying and threats are never acceptable.