Introduction

The Sovereign Imperial Court of Indiana (SICII) believes that the use of social media represents an important development in society, which offers upsides as well as potential risks. In this Social Media Policy, we describe the rules that members need to be aware of when using social media.

 

We consider all websites where you have a profile-based presence and can engage in online conversations, transparently or otherwise, to be social media. The best-known social media sites at the moment are Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube. However, be aware that new ones pop up all the time. Similarly, sites such as Flickr and Slideshare also have social media aspects.

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Use

Just as with the rise of the Internet, new possibilities emerge and it is not always immediately clear how everything should be regulated, but we believe that every member is able to make sensible choices. This document was designed to help make these choices. If you have any questions, please contact the Membership Coordinator.

 

You probably use social media primarily in a personal capacity. However, we ask you to be aware that even when acting in a personal capacity, it is becoming ever easier for others to see who you are, where you work, and other organizations you are part of. This means that even in your private life and when acting in a personal capacity, you are increasingly a representative of SICII.

We believe that if you are aware of this, you will act in a responsible manner.

 

At the same time, it is good to realise that not everything is suddenly new and different. What hasn’t changed is that you always use your common sense.

Be aware, for instance, that the information you share on social media sites cannot be taken down once it’s out there. Even information that you only share with “friends” can easily be copied and shared with the rest of the world.

SICII By-Laws and policies include a number of provisions equally applicable to what you do with social media. For instance, it has always been the case that you should not publish confidential or member contact information – this hasn’t changed!

 

If you get involved on social media sites in discussions about SICII, whether directly or indirectly, be aware that you have a responsibility as a member, and your contributions should always be in the interest of our organization.

 

Guidelines

Please observe the following guidelines, where applicable, when using social media:

1. You are solely responsible for what you communicate, regardless of the name or alias you use. Keep this in mind at all times.

2. If you create an account or alias, you must not in any way use the name “SICII” or “Sovereign Imperial Court of Indiana” in your account name or alias without the permission of the board President.

3. If you behave or communicate in a way detrimental to SICII while using social media, it is always possible that the board President may wish to address the matter with you.

4. If you communicate directly or indirectly about SICII, you should never do so in a negative light - whether about SICII or on behalf of SICII. Social media is not an appropriate channel for negative communication, and it rarely does any good.

5. If you become involved in a discussion that starts to become unpleasant, do not get involved any further, just walk away.

6. Please make sure you don’t share any information about third parties without their consent. Specifically, this means information about members, donors, or donation recipients.

7. Do not respond impulsively: it never hurts to think twice before posting. If in doubt, consult with another member or the Membership Coordinator.

 

We realise that developments in this field move very quickly. In this policy, we have tried to include the most important points and principles, but it is by no means exhaustive.