Tips and help for becoming more professional both in the office and in social media for college admissions or high school counseling. Presented at the Indiana Association for College Admission Counseling Summer Institute. Tips for using Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and About.me.
2. Welcome to Your Profession!
This is a professional career
Not just a job, you’re the expert!
Professional standards apply online as
well
Social media can blur the lines of personal
and professional
4. Professional 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
10. 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
16. 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
17. Professional Profiles
Have a professional photo ready
ID photo or headshot from website
Consistency looks good
Have bio or professional description ready
A few sentences describing you, your role,
and/or your goals
Elevator pitch
18. Professional Facebook
Link profile to work email or professional
email address
Use cover photo that represents your
institution or isn’t unprofessional
19. Professional Twitter
Retweet and interact with university or
high school
Interact and answer questions from
students
25. 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
26. Discuss
What have been your experiences with
social media and professional standards at
work?
What questions do you have?