Personal Use of Online Blogs and Social Networking Sites

As an employee of OSU, you must be careful in your personal life to make sure your personal communications and postings are not perceived to be associated with the university. These guidelines explain how OSU policies apply to your personal use of these newer communications technologies.

• Follow all applicable OSU policies. For example, you must not share confidential or proprietary information about OSU and you must maintain employee privacy.
• If your blog, posting or other online activities are inconsistent with, or would negatively impact OSU's reputation or brand, you should not refer to OSU, or identify your connection to OSU.
• Write in the first person. Where your connection to OSU is apparent, make it clear that you are speaking for yourself and not on behalf of OSU. In those circumstances, you may want to include this disclaimer: "The views expressed on this [blog; website] are my own and do not reflect the views of my employer." Consider adding this language in an "About me" section of your blog or social networking profile.
• If you communicate in the public internet about OSU or OSU-related matters, disclose your connection with OSU and your role at OSU. Use good judgment and strive for accuracy in your communications; errors and omissions reflect poorly on OSU, and may result in liability for you or OSU.
• Use a personal email address (not your okstate.edu address) as your primary means of identification. Just as you would not use OSU stationery for a letter to the editor with your personal views, do not use your OSU e-mail address for personal views.
• Be respectful and professional to fellow employees, business partners, competitors and employees. Avoid using unprofessional online personas.
• Ensure that your blogging and social networking activity does not interfere with your work commitments.