WBBA is an apolitical organisation and does not condone social abuse (or any abuse) of other boerboel owners, breeders or organisations. Members are expected to interact with other members of the boerboel community with respect and restraint. WBBA will act on any abusive post by one of their members.
A code of conduct for members and representatives of WBBA
We encourage our members and representatives to engage in social media and join the conversation online. This policy sets out rules and guidelines for good practice and also what’s out of bounds. They’re what some people might call “the do’s and don’ts of social media.”
In essence, the guidelines for functioning in an electronic world are the same as the values, ethics and confidentiality members and representatives are expected to live every day.
- Respect your audience. Don’t disparage breeders, owners, people's dogs, readers and viewers.
- When disagreeing with others’ opinions, keep it appropriate and polite.
- Don’t post, publish or release information or content that is proprietary or confidential.
- Don't use other people's photos or video's without permission.
- Make sure what you say is factually correct.
- You are legally responsible for posts (and may be liable if found to be violation of the law.)
Tips for Posting Online
- Conversations are a two way street. Become part of the conversation: respond, contribute ideas, comment, encourage comments, re-tweet, share useful links.
- Reply to comments in a timely manner, when a response is appropriate.
- Know your audience. The more you know the better you can connect. Understand what they care about, what their interests are, why they’re reading what your writing.
- When you post make it helpful, meaningful and interesting.
- Part of being interesting is allowing your expertise and personality to come through when you post.
- Speak in your own voice. Use the first person. Talk to your readers like you would talk to real people in professional situations. Avoid composed language.
- If you’re authentic, interesting, understand your audience and responsive you’ll attract readers (who’ll get to know you and the business better.)
- Think before you post. Pause and re-read it. Think about how it’ll be perceived. Imagine it plastered on a billboard. Realise it can be permanent.
- If you’re about to publish something that makes you uncomfortable, don’t shrug it off and hit send. Review these guidelines and figure out what’s bothering you and fix it. If you’re still unsure, discuss it with the Director.
- Check and make sure the detail is right e.g. spelling is correct and links work.
- Do us proud. Be sure content associated with you is consistent with your work and with our values and standards.
- If you make a mistake, admit it, be upfront about it, correct it quickly and transparently (by leaving a note about what has changed.)