Social Media Resources

• Brand & Style Guides: Always have the latest Howard University Brand Guidelines at your fingertips. These guidelines cover proper logo use, color codes, typography, and editorial style points. 
• The  Social Media Graphics & Templates repository​ provides downloadable graphics (e.g. branded PowerPoint or Photoshop templates for events, holidays, etc.) that you can customize for your needs, saving you time and ensuring on-brand design. 
  [LINK TO COME / WILL NEED THESE ASSETS DURING SITE BUILD OUT] 
  
• Policies and Legal Compliance:  Make sure you are familiar with relevant Howard University policies that intersect with social media use. This includes the university’s Social Media Policy, the Acceptable Use Policy for IT resources, policies on student conduct, and any FERPA guidelines for sharing student information. When in doubt about whether content might violate a policy, seek guidance. For example, if you’re approached to post about a corporate partnership, you should check sponsorship and endorsement guidelines. OUC and the Office of General Counsel can clarify what’s permissible. Remember that as an account owner, you are responsible for complying with laws (copyright, privacy, etc.) and university rules in all your posts​. 
  
• Crisis Communication Resources: As noted in the Crisis Communication section, there should be a clear plan in place. Ensure you take note of Howard’s crisis communication protocol or at least know the key contacts and steps. Keep important contact information (OUC leads, Campus Police, etc.) handy. Some training might involve scenario simulations to practice responding. Taking advantage of these will make you more prepared if an actual crisis arises. 
  
• Analytics Tools: If you need assistance in gathering analytics, OUC can guide you on using native platform insights or more advanced tools.  
• Additional Resources: Stay educated on social media trends and updates. Platforms change features and algorithms frequently. Follow industry channels on various platforms, join higher education social media forums, or even take online courses. The more you sharpen your skills, the more effectively you can serve your audience.  

Finally, never underestimate the value of proofreading and second opinions: before a major campaign or whenever you’re unsure about a post, have a colleague review it.