The use of social media to share the content of presentations, symposia, panel sessions, workshops, keynote addresses and all other events and activities associated with the NZMSS Conference is actively encouraged, but……..

In today’s world, it is important to understand that information shared on social media is readily available for the world to see and may potentially be interpreted out of the context in which it was given.

 

As we work together to build our brand, here are a few tips to keep in mind while we navigate the ins and outs of the online world:

• You’re amongst friends—sometimes.  As much as your blog, Instagram post, Facebook page, etc… might feel like your cozy home on the Internet where friends stop by to catch up, it’s really a public space. People can land on your page from a Google search and read just one post completely out of any other context. And that content? It lives on forever in Google, long after you’ve forgotten about it. So, think of your web space less like a family room and more like your front yard.

• Spread news, don’t break it. It’s great (and helpful!) when we can use our personal web spaces to share the great things we are doing. However, make sure what you talk about is ready for public consumption. When in doubt- ask!

• Be smart. From a legal perspective, you’re responsible for what’s on your personal web space, so make sure you follow copyright rules and any other relevant laws. When it comes to content shared by speakers, a good rule of thumb is “point, don’t post,” meaning that it’s better to link to the content on established communication channels rather than posting it on your own personal blog or site.

• Due to the sensitive nature of data and preliminary, unpublished research findings, filming, photography and recording of presentations and poster sessions is strictly prohibited without prior consent!

 

Being on social media, including but not limited to Facebook Messenger, Instagram or Pinterest is an inevitable daily activity for a great percentage of today’s population. Here are some guidelines to abide by, to help navigate the world of social media in regard to the NZMSS Conference.

 

BEST PRACTICES

 

Presenters should give out handle and affiliation in title slide/poster. If you want recognition, give tweeters the details.
 

Always ask before posting images. Do not post figures or tables with data without consent and always get permission before posting images of people.

Differentiate your opinion from statements by the presenter. Separate your own comments/viewpoints on the presenter or their science from the presenter’s own words by using different tweets. One is their statement, follow up is your commentary. If you don’t use quotes and/or attribution, readers will assume it’s your statement.

Direct quotes get “quotation marks”. Other people’s words belong to other people. This isn’t just on social media, its professional ethics.

Be respectful. If you wouldn’t say it to their face, don’t post about it online

Add links often. Allow readers to dive deeper, access presenters’ publications, professional website, etc. Some Twitter tools abbreviate URLs automatically to save space. If yours does not, use tinyurl.com.

Posts will be the public face of the conference. Remember that many social media users will not be attending the conference, so items you post could easily be taken out of context.

Be happy that the audience is posting! “Sharing is Caring”, plus studies have shown that social media coverage increases citation rates and overall numbers.

Please be considerate of presenters’ requests for no social media coverage. Some are presenting very fresh preliminary data, which may not be fully explored, or the impacts or conclusions may not be fully developed. They may be sharing them with their scientific peers at this conference to foster discussion and feedback but, feel that the findings are not ready for wider consumption.

Have Fun! Social media is meant to be social, fun, and a positive experience for everyone. It’s about engaging people beyond the conference itself and positive community building within the Society.