SRJC utilizes social media to connect with students, showcase its programs, and support the college community. All social media accounts affiliated with SRJC must follow basic guidelines to ensure alignment with SRJC’s mission, brand, and legal responsibilities.
If you are developing social media for your specific department, here are best practices and key guidelines to follow.
Top 5 Best Practices
- Put students first. Share content that is relevant, inclusive, and engaging for students and prospective students.
- Keep it accurate. Double-check facts and use reliable sources before posting. If you make a mistake, correct it quickly and transparently.
- Be accessible. Do not post flyers – they are not designed for social media purposes. Additionally, don’t post images with excessive text as they are not accessible to all audiences. Always add alt text and captions and make sure any copy is included separately in the posting.
- Use high-quality visuals. Clear, well-lit photos and HD video go a long way. Avoid pixelated, dark, or low-res images.
- Engage consistently and respectfully. Monitor comments and messages. Respond in a timely, professional, and welcoming tone.
10 Key Guidelines to Follow
These apply to all official SRJC-affiliated accounts (departments, programs).
- Get approval before launching an account. Submit the Social Media Account Request Form and collaborate with Marketing & Communications before creating or posting.
- Have at least two account administrators. Never leave accounts under the sole control of a student or temporary employee. Share login credentials with your department lead and keep the logins and passwords on file.
- Use SRJC branding and graphics. Only district-managed accounts are permitted to use the official SRJC logo. Work with MarCom to develop an approved department or club logo.
- Follow campus and legal policies. Adhere to FERPA, SRJC’s Computer Use Policy, and the terms of service for each social media platform used (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, etc.).
- Avoid political posts, commercial posts, and solicitations. Don’t endorse political candidates, promote commercial businesses, or solicit donations unless officially approved by the SRJC Board of Trustees.
- Post with purpose. Social media isn’t a bulletin board. Keep it conversational, student-focused, and timely. Aim for an 80/20 balance: 80% useful/engaging content, 20% promotion.
- Don’t share private information. Never request or post any personal student info (e.g., ID numbers, addresses, birthdates). Direct questions about enrollment, counseling, international student program, or financial aid to the appropriate department.
- Keep your content inclusive and respectful. Monitor for spam, bullying, or offensive language—and remove abusive posts when appropriate. Disagreement is okay; discrimination and harassment are not.
- Stay ADA-compliant. Use text descriptions (alt text), do not share flyers, and ensure content is accessible to all users.
- Ask for help when needed. MarCom offers training, consulting, and crisis support. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our Marketing and Social Media Coordinator.
What Kind of Content Works Well?
- Student success stories
- Behind the scenes of programs or events
- Photos/videos of hands-on class activities
- Student club spotlights
- Job or scholarship announcements
- Celebrations of culture, identity, and community
- Timely reminders and deadlines
Have an idea or Need help?
Reach out to the MarCom team. We’re here to help make your social media efforts engaging, impactful, and successful. Or open a support ticket for a social media campaign.
For complete details and more information on guidelines and governance, please review the Social Media Guidelines