Social Media & Communications Policy

1. Purpose

This policy sets out the standards for responsible use of social media and professional communications by Divergent Edge Strategies ("we", "our", "us") employees, contractors, and representatives.

Our goal is to:

• Protect our brand reputation and client relationships
• Maintain professionalism in all business-related communications
• Ensure compliance with confidentiality obligations and Australian law
• Provide guidance when representing the company, whether at our offices, on client sites, or online

2. Scope

• All employees, contractors, consultants, and suppliers representing Divergent Edge Strategies
• All professional communications, whether written, verbal, or digital
• All use of social media, both company-managed and personal accounts, when referencing or appearing to represent Divergent Edge Strategies or our clients

3. Definitions

• Social Media: Any online platform for creating, sharing, or exchanging content, including LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), TikTok, YouTube, blogs, and forums.
• Official Communication: Any communication issued on behalf of Divergent Edge Strategies in a business context.
• Client-Sensitive Communication: Any communication referring to or involving a client’s business, projects, or personnel.

4. Policy Statement

• Communicate respectfully, professionally, and accurately at all times
• Protect confidential and sensitive information belonging to both Divergent Edge Strategies and our clients
• Avoid making statements that could harm our reputation or relationships
• Comply with applicable Australian laws, including the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), Defamation Act 2005, and Australian Consumer Law

5. Using Social Media in a Professional Capacity

• Only authorised staff may post on official Divergent Edge Strategies social media accounts
• All company-related content must be approved by management before publication
• When posting about work in a personal capacity:
• Do not disclose confidential information
• Do not post identifiable images of client sites, materials, or staff without written consent
• Include a disclaimer when expressing personal views (e.g., "Opinions are my own")

6. Communications When Working Within Client Businesses

• Follow both Divergent Edge Strategies’ and the client’s communication and social media policies
• Never speak on behalf of a client unless expressly authorised in writing
• Direct all client media, PR, or public inquiries to the relevant client contact and notify Divergent Edge Strategies management
• Maintain a high level of discretion when discussing client matters, even in informal settings

7. Prohibited Content

• Share confidential or commercially sensitive information
• Make false, misleading, or defamatory statements
• Post content that is discriminatory, offensive, harassing, or otherwise breaches our Bullying, Harassment & Sexual Harassment Policy
• Use company or client branding without permission

8. Breaches

• Removal of offending content
• Disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or contract
• Legal action where necessary

9. Responsibilities

• Management: Approve official content, monitor compliance, and respond to breaches
• Employees/Contractors: Follow this policy in all professional communications
• Suppliers/Partners: Maintain communication standards equal to those required by this policy

10. Review & Updates

This policy will be reviewed annually or when significant changes in technology, law, or business operations occur.