Purpose: Social media is everywhere and can be a great communication and marketing tool. Though individuals may post items on social media that are not related to work or Buy the Beach Realty Group, LLC (“BTB”), what you share on the Internet is, or may be interpreted to be, representative of BTB and, should be approached with awareness and caution.
Scope: This social media policy applies to all employees, independent contractors, and agents associated with Buy the Beach Realty Group (“BTB”), regardless of whether the technology is used on a BTB company device or private device.
General Guidelines for Social Media Usage: In order to protect BTB from the posting
of comments and information that may have a harmful effect on its reputation, staff and/or other members, the following policy has been developed. For the purpose of this policy, “engaging in social media” means posting or uploading content to any type of interactive electronic communication including but not limited to websites, blogs, social networks and discussion boards.
- Since the Internet is public space, you must refrain from engaging in social media that may disparage or harm the image or reputation of BTB, its employees, agents, sales persons, and independent contractors.
- You assume any and all risks associated with engaging in social media.
- You are solely responsible for the content you post on social media. BTB disclaims any responsibility or liability for any errors, omissions, loss or damages claimed or incurred due to any postings made by you.
- Respect copyright, trademark, privacy, financial disclosure an all other laws especially the real estate license laws and regulations. In accessing or using a social media site, comply with the legal terms or code of conduct governing such site. Do not post materials of others- such as photographs, articles, artwork, or music- without first getting the written permission of the creator of the work. In addition, any display of the original work of others must identify the creator of the work, attribute the creation of that work to the creator of the work and disclose that the work is being used with the permission of that person. Refrain from “reposting” information from other sites without a source.
- If your social media is linked to or implies you are linked to BTB as an agent, independent contractor, sales person, or employee, be sure it is clear that your opinion and views expressed are yours alone and that any statements, opinions and beliefs do not necessarily reflect the views of BTB.
- When engaging in social media, do not expect your comments to be or remain private. Even comments posted in private groups can easily be shared publicly. Be vigilant to ensure that you do not disclose any information that is confidential or proprietary to BTB or to any third party that has disclosed information to us. This includes but is not limited to the use of BTB’s proprietary material, personnel, staffing, and financial information.
- When it comes to political advocacy and candidate campaigns, conduct yourself online accordingly. Remember, be sure it is clear that your opinion and views expressed are yours alone and that any statements, opinions and beliefs do not necessarily reflect the views of BTB.
- If posting on social media for business or property advertisement/promotion, the following guidelines apply:
- Fair Housing Compliance: You must comply with all federal, state, and local fair housing laws.
- Permission should always be granted in writing (email) for agents to post another agent’s listing on social media or for use in any other way that could be deemed as advertisement or promotion.
- Agent is responsible for assuring that posts are consistent with the Code of Ethics, local, state and federal laws and all applicable real estate license laws and regulations, including where necessary identifying Agent.
Good Ways to Reduce Social Media Risks
Social media can be a powerful business tool, but avoiding blurred lines between your private life and work life can be difficult. Some ideas to help are:
- Have separate work and personal social media profiles.
- Keep things positive. It’s never a good idea to trash talk other people or the places. Also, people usually don’t want to do business with a “Negative-Nelly”. Ranting, complaining, and spreading misery are not a good idea.
- Stay away from politics or other topics that could spark emotions or controversy.
- Offer helpful information. Make sure you do not violate local, state, or federal housing laws. Make sure you don’t violate copyright laws either.