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Social Media Handbook

Social media has changed the way we communicate – both as an institution and as individuals. With tools such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok and more, anyone has the ability to create a dynamic online presence, update it from wherever they are whenever they want, and share their content instantly with friends and followers around the world. Social media gives Vanderbilt the opportunity to engage in ongoing conversations with our students, faculty, staff, parents, alumni, colleagues, prospective students, fans and friends about what is most important to them, extending the community found on the Vanderbilt campus to the world.

Vanderbilt University supports the use of social media by employees to connect with students, fellow faculty and staff, alumni, fans, colleagues and more. This handbook provides guidance on how to do so effectively, safely and within university guidelines.

If you manage a social media presence, or are considering starting a social media account, for any Vanderbilt school, department, organization or group, it is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with this handbook. We also have a community on Slack where we discuss best practices, upcoming campaigns and more. Please contact the Social Media Team if you manage a school or departmental account and would like to join our Slack community.

Social media is constantly changing. As a result, this handbook will continue to evolve. If you have suggestions, please contact the Social Media Team.

VUMC departments, please refer to the VUMC Social Media Toolkit.