Overview

This policy outlines the guidelines for using social media. It applies when you identify yourself as part of Scenic Sotheby's International Realty (beyond incidental mentions in personal posts). Social media includes, but is not limited to, platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Twitter, YouTube, and blogs.

General Expectations

We encourage professional and responsible social media use. Always ensure that your online presence aligns with our company’s values and maintains the integrity of our brand. In addition to this policy, team members must also adhere to the Sotheby’s International Realty Sales Associate Guidelines.

Guidelines for Social Media Use

Confidentiality & Privacy

• You may discuss your work but must not share confidential information, including:
  • Unpublished business details, financials, or research.
  • Customer information, listing opportunities, or sensitive transactions.
  • Trade secrets or competitive strategies.
• Respect customer privacy—never disclose details of their home purchase or sale.

Copyright & Compliance

• Respect copyright laws and do not use copyrighted material without permission.
• Always credit sources when sharing content, including images and articles.
• You cannot use another agent’s photos without their consent.
• Ensure all real estate-related posts comply with FREC and MLS regulations.

Professionalism & Respect

• Communicate respectfully, keeping in mind our diverse audience.
• Avoid offensive, defamatory, or inflammatory comments, including those related to politics and religion.
• Do not engage in online disputes, personal attacks, or inflammatory debates.

Client, Partner, and Supplier Relations

• Do not reference or name customers, partners, or suppliers without permission.
• If discussing projects, use general descriptions or anonymized terms.
• Social media is not a platform for conducting business or negotiations with customers.

Handling Controversy & Errors

• If you encounter misrepresentations about our company, respond respectfully with factual information.
• If you make a mistake in a post, correct it promptly and transparently.
• If someone raises concerns about your content (e.g., copyright issues, improper comments), address them quickly and, if necessary, remove the post.

Use Good Judgment

• Consider the potential impact of your words. Criticism should be constructive, not harmful.
• Do not post content that could damage our reputation, that of your colleagues, or our customers.

Disclaimers

• When discussing industry topics, include a disclaimer stating your views are personal and not necessarily those of Scenic Sotheby's International Realty.

Enforcement

Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

By following these guidelines, you help maintain a professional, ethical, and engaging online presence that reflects positively on both you and our company.