A social media page is a powerful tool to engage Roadrunner partners, share wins and recruit people to get involved with the campus initiatives that make Metropolitan State University of Denver special.
However, University-branded accounts must follow recently updated guidelines to ensure compliance with the law, brand consistency and ethical use of artificial intelligence.
Branden Whitfield, social media manager in University Communications and Marketing, is here to help. See below for his guidance to make a plan, simplify approval and ensure your account will succeed.
Q: Why does MSU Denver have a social media policy?
A: The MSU Denver social media policy encourages meaningful engagement through social media while ensuring all University-affiliated accounts represent the institution professionally, accurately and in compliance with University policies and applicable laws.
Q: What steps are required before creating an MSU Denver social media account?
A: Develop a content plan including setting goals and determining a primary audience, and agree on who will create content and how they’ll maintain a steady flow of production.
Select a primary social media account administrator AND backup to manage accounts.
Consider which social channels will best engage your audience. Being on all platforms is not necessary.
Review the MSU Denver Social Media Policy and New Account Requirements.
If you are interested in starting a University social media account, submit a request here or contact [email protected].
Q: How can campus leaders ensure they’re keeping their pages “active” and “dynamic”?
A: To maximize engagement I recommend posting at least once a week.
“Dynamic” means leveraging content that’s engaging and platform-specific. You shouldn’t be posting the same content on each platform.
Q: What resources are available to official University social media properties?
A: Official University social media properties have access to imagery, graphics, templates, consultation, regular insights on platform updates and an expert community of practice.
Q: What is appropriate use of AI on social media?
A: AI is a great tool to support content creation, but all outputs must be reviewed and edited by a human, protect privacy, avoid misleading or fabricated content, and be transparently disclosed when AI plays a significant role. AI should never be used to impersonate the likeness of people or officially licensed symbols, marks and logos.
Q: How do I go above and beyond to make my social media shine, grow an audience and help my program flourish?
A: Start here: MSU Denver Social Media Best Practices.
Create authentic content that’s relevant to your department and followers. For example: Address common questions, inform or clear up pain points.
Share content created by users, or UGC. Have fun and try new things.
Collaborate with other departments.
Spread the word about your social presence – at events, in presentations, on your webpage, add it to your email signature, put it on apparel and promo items, on signage – so many ways.
Still have questions?
