Considerations for Blogs and Social Networks like Facebook, Myspace, and Twitter

Duke University takes free expression seriously and goes to great lengths to protect that right.  Social networks such as Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter have expanded opportunities to express yourself, connect with friends, and build your network.  Still, there are several responsibilities to consider when you create your persona and post messages online.

• What you post is public information. You have a much larger audience than you might be aware.

• What you post is going to be around for a while.  Because caching and other forms of technology can capture your postings, information is accessible even after you’ve removed it.

• What you post can harm others.  You are free to express yourself on social networks in ways that you feel are appropriate for you.  However, it is important that you respect the privacy and rights of others.  Posting things about others can place both you and your subject in a contentious situation.

• What you post may affect your future.  There is a growing trend for employers to check Google and social networks to gather information about potential candidates.  The online persona you create today may be available when you begin your internship or full-time job search or when you apply to professional or graduate school—even if you think you’ve deleted it.  Carefully consider how you want people to perceive you before you give them the chance to misinterpret your profile and pictures.

To read more about social networks, your rights and responsibilities, go to:

Ten Privacy Settings Every Facebook User Should Know About  By Nick O'Neill, Allfacebook.com

Online Persona Can Ruin Your Shot at That Job  By Alan Finder, The New York Times

MySpace Is Public Space When It Comes To Job Search  collegegrad.com

The Issues Surrounding College Recruiting and Social Networking Web Sites  National Association of Colleges and Employers