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The Bulldog - For the SWOSU Family

Social Media

Social Media Profile and Avatar Guidance

Official Avatars

  • Use SWOSU-approved logo adaptations (e.g., Unit Social Media Profile Logo) sized for visibility in small formats.
  • Maintain proper color contrast and do not modify or decorate marks.
  • Do not use AI-generated images of any kind

Cover Images

  • Feature authentic student life, campus settings, or branded graphics.
  • Avoid text overlays that reduce readability.
  • Refresh seasonally or quarterly to keep content timely.
  • Do not use AI-generated images of any kind

Account Registration

  • Before creating a new social media account for a SWOSU department, program, or office, confirm that an account does not already exist.
  • Reach out to the Digital Communications Specialist in the Office of Public Relations and Marketing to coordinate new accounts.
    • This ensures accounts align with university standards, allows for feedback if needed, and provides access to resources such as templates, graphics, or accessibility guidance.

All official SWOSU social media accounts must be registered with the Office of Public Relations & Marketing for oversight and support.

Usernames and Profile Information

  • Usernames should clearly identify the SWOSU affiliation.
  • Preferred format: SWOSU [Official Name of Program] (e.g., SWOSU Department of Nursing)

Account descriptions (bio/about sections) should include “SWOSU” and briefly explain the account’s purpose. Avoid abbreviations that are unclear outside your department.

Content Creation Tips

Accessibility Practices

  • Provide alt text for all images.
  • Use camel-case hashtags (e.g., #GoBulldogs).
  • Caption all videos accurately; transcripts required for audio content.

Brand Alignment

  • Tie posts to SWOSU’s brand pillars and storytelling voice.
  • Highlight authentic student stories, campus traditions, and community impact.
  • Do not use AI-generated images of any kind

Design & Engagement

  • Use high-contrast visuals and readable fonts.
  • Balance original posts, curated stories, and user-generated content.
  • Apply a branded intro/outro to video content when applicable.
  • Do not use AI-generated images of any kind

Audience Engagement Guidelines

Platform Selection

Choose platforms based on your audience, team capacity, and content goals:

  • Traditional Students: Instagram
  • Alumni, Professional/Non-traditional students, and Community Members: Facebook, LinkedIn
  • Professionals and partners: LinkedIn, YouTube

Start with one or two platforms and expand only when resources and experience allow. Managing fewer accounts well is preferable to stretching the team too thin.

Tone

  • Warm, conversational, and inclusive.
  • Avoid jargon or overly promotional language.
  • Respond with authenticity and empathy.

Response Standards

  • Reply to comments and direct messages within 24–48 hours.
  • Escalate sensitive or reputational issues to the Office of Public Relations & Marketing immediately.

Frequency & Consistency

  • Maintain an active posting cadence aligned with university priorities, recruitment cycles, and campus events.
  • Avoid excessive posting that diminishes engagement.

Crisis Communications

  • During emergencies, coordinate all social media messaging with central PR & Marketing.
  • Do not post crisis-related information without official approval.

Recommendations & Best Practices

Account Security

  • Store login information securely and share with relevant staff for continuity. Use a password manager when possible.
  • Update account passwords when staff members leave and remove them as administrators.
  • Ensure continuity by designating another staff member or the Digital Communications Specialist in the Office of PR and Marketing as an additional point of access.

Management & Oversight

  • Departments are responsible for monitoring accounts but are encouraged to collaborate with the Digital Communications Specialist in the Office of PR and Marketing for strategy, troubleshooting, or crisis response.

Networking & Engagement

  • Follow other SWOSU-affiliated accounts and relevant local and professional accounts to strengthen connections across departments and show support for campus initiatives.
  • Following relevant accounts helps monitor campus conversations, build community, and encourage reciprocal engagement.

Summary

These standards ensure that all SWOSU digital and social media communications are accessible, consistent, and reflective of the university’s mission and brand. By following these guidelines, departments and organizations contribute to a unified and inclusive digital presence that strengthens the SWOSU identity.