Let's talk about social media | Caring with Confidence: The Code in Action | NMC

Summary

This video discusses the impact of social media on our personal and professional lives, highlighting both its benefits and pitfalls. It emphasizes the importance of using social media responsibly, respecting privacy, and following professional codes of conduct. Viewers are encouraged to think carefully before posting, considering the potential consequences for their reputation and the privacy of others. The video also provides practical tips for maintaining professionalism, including understanding platform privacy settings, acting in accordance with professional guidelines, and being mindful of the content shared, especially when interacting with people in care.

Takeaways

• 😀 Social media has made it quicker and easier to find and share information.
• 😀 It helps build both professional networks and personal relationships.
• 😀 Social media can support idea sharing, good practices, and professional development.
• 😀 Pitfalls exist in social media that can catch anyone off guard, often unknowingly.
• 😀 The fast-moving nature of social media makes it easy to react instinctively and difficult to distinguish between facts and fiction.
• 😀 Your professional code and social media guidance can help avoid pitfalls.
• 😀 Responsible use of social media includes respecting others' privacy and not posting sensitive or confidential information.
• 😀 Be cautious with photos, videos, and words when using social media.
• 😀 Express personal beliefs in a respectful, kind, and compassionate way on social media.
• 😀 Social media is not the appropriate platform for communication with those under your care—redirect them to more appropriate channels.
• 😀 To maintain professionalism, always act in line with your code and consider the impact of your posts on your professional reputation.

Q & A

How has social media changed our lives?

Social media has made it quicker and easier to find and share information, helped build professional networks, and fostered personal relationships. It also enables the sharing of ideas, the spread of good practices, and supports ongoing professional development.

What are the main pitfalls of social media usage?

The main pitfalls include reacting instinctively in the fast-moving world of social media, where it can be difficult to distinguish between facts and fiction. Additionally, sharing sensitive or confidential information, or expressing personal beliefs inappropriately, can also lead to negative consequences.

What is one key aspect of responsible social media use?

Responsible social media use includes respecting others' privacy, which means not posting or sharing sensitive or confidential information about others that you wouldn’t want shared about yourself.

How should one handle sensitive photos and videos on social media?

Just like with words, photos and videos should be handled with care. Be mindful of the content being shared, ensuring it doesn't violate privacy or reveal sensitive details.

Can I share my personal beliefs on social media?

Yes, you can share your political, moral, or religious views, but it is important to do so in a respectful, kind, and compassionate manner. Ensure that your posts remain appropriate and do not harm others.

Is social media a suitable platform for communicating with people under my care?

No, social media is not the right channel for speaking to people in your care. If they contact you through social media, you should redirect them to more appropriate channels.

How can I maintain professionalism while using social media?

To maintain professionalism, always act in line with your professional code. Even if your posts are unrelated to your role, they can still impact your professional reputation. You should also know your platform’s privacy settings and pause before posting.

What should I consider before posting something on social media?

Before posting, consider who might see your post and whether you would stand by it in the future. Also, ensure that you trust the source of the content you are sharing and that it aligns with your values.

How can I ensure that my posts don't harm my professional reputation?

To protect your professional reputation, act in line with your professional code, be mindful of your privacy settings, and pause before posting. Even unrelated posts can affect how others perceive you professionally.

Why is it important to understand the platform you are using?

Understanding the platform is crucial because it helps you manage your privacy settings and control who can see your posts. Different platforms have varying audiences and risks, so knowing the platform allows you to use it more responsibly.