Social Media & Public Representation Policy
*******************************************

The Social Media & Public Representation Policy defines how Maryland Productions (MP) and Event
Revolution (RV) are represented in public forums, including social media, press interactions, and
other public-facing communications. Public statements and posts can directly affect client trust,
company reputation, and legal obligations.

All personnel are expected to represent MP/RV professionally, both on and off the job.


Purpose
=======

- Protect company and client reputation.
- Ensure consistent and professional public representation.
- Prevent unauthorized disclosure of confidential information.
- Clarify expectations for social media use related to work.
- Reduce legal and reputational risk.


Who This Policy Applies To
==========================

This policy applies to:

- Employees (full-time and part-time)
- Freelancers and independent contractors
- Temporary staff and interns
- Project Managers and Crew Leads
- Anyone representing MP or RV publicly or online

This policy applies whether content is posted during or outside work hours.


General Representation Standards
================================

All personnel must:

- Represent MP/RV professionally and respectfully.
- Avoid statements that could harm the company, clients, or partners.
- Ensure public communications are accurate and appropriate.
- Follow client confidentiality and data security requirements.
- Comply with all other company policies when posting or speaking publicly.


Authorized Spokespersons
========================

- Only authorized individuals may speak on behalf of MP/RV to:
  - Media outlets  
  - Press  
  - Clients in official statements  
  - Public announcements  
- Unauthorized individuals must refer inquiries to management.

Speaking on behalf of the company without authorization is prohibited.


Social Media Use
================

Personal Accounts
-----------------

- Personal social media accounts must not imply official company representation unless authorized.
- Do not use company logos, branding, or trademarks without permission.
- Include disclaimers where appropriate (e.g., “opinions are my own”).
- Do not post content that violates company policies or client confidentiality.

Personal posts can still impact the company.


Work-Related Content
--------------------

The following require approval before posting:

- Photos or videos from job sites
- Behind-the-scenes content
- Client names, logos, or venues
- Technical setups or plots
- Crew photos identifying MP/RV

When in doubt, do not post.


Client & Event Restrictions
===========================

- Many clients and venues prohibit photography or posting.
- Always follow client-specific restrictions.
- NDAs override this policy.
- Never post during private or restricted events.

Assume content is restricted unless told otherwise.


Prohibited Content
==================

The following are strictly prohibited:

- Confidential or proprietary information
- Client budgets, pricing, or contracts
- Security procedures or access details
- Harassing, discriminatory, or offensive content
- Content that portrays unsafe practices
- False or misleading statements about MP/RV

Violations may have serious consequences.


Use of Company Accounts
=======================

- Company social media accounts may only be accessed by authorized personnel.
- Content must align with company branding and messaging.
- Credentials must be protected and not shared.
- Posts must be reviewed when required.

Company accounts are official public records.


Photography & Recording On-Site
===============================

- Obtain approval before taking photos or video on-site.
- Do not interfere with work, safety, or guests.
- Respect privacy of clients, performers, and attendees.
- Follow venue rules at all times.

Unauthorized recording is prohibited.


Disputes & Online Conduct
=========================

- Do not engage in public arguments or disputes online.
- Do not respond to negative comments without approval.
- Refer complaints or media inquiries to management.

Public disputes escalate risk and damage trust.


Enforcement
===========

Violations of this policy may result in:

- Removal of posted content
- Loss of work opportunities
- Disciplinary action
- Termination of employment or contract
- Legal action where appropriate

Severity depends on the nature and impact of the violation.


Acknowledgement
===============

All personnel may be required to acknowledge this policy in writing. Failure to read or acknowledge
this policy does not exempt individuals from compliance.


Related Policies
================

- :doc:`client_confidentiality`
- :doc:`data_security`
- :doc:`code_of_conduct`
- :doc:`harassment_discrimination`