While news reports and expert opinions are all well and good, here at SMK we believe that an effective social media policy should also be informed by the latest facts and hard data.

That's why, in addition to reporting on the latest social media developments across Australasia, SMK also enjoys doing research.

Last year we released our first Insights Report that examined how Google+ is being successfully used by Australian brands.

Today we're proud to announce the launch of our new SMK Insights – Social Media Policy research paper.

As social media becomes a more integral part of all businesses, the need for a sound social media policy is becoming more pressing. How do you balance protecting your brand's reputation without stifling staff's creativity? How you should you react with an employee breaks your social media guidelines? Do the same rules apply outside of the workspace and office hours?

In our paper you'll find examples of different social media policies from leading brands including National Australia Bank. There is also expert opinions from agencies such as Edelman and Social@Ogilvy, as well as case studies, key considerations and best practice guidelines.

The paper comprehensively outlines what you need to do in order to create, update and enact your social media policy to ensure your business is prepared, progressive and protected.

Don't wait until it's too late, upload our SMK Insights paper today at smk.net.au/downloads.

Check out SMK’s upcoming industry leading training courses in: Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Canberra, Auckland, Adelaide and Wellington.

Also, browse through hundreds of online social media video tutorials on eSMK Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and more!!