Future civil servants advised: Pause, and post wisely on social media
The Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) has issued a comprehensive advisory for the newly selected civil services candidates this year. Emphasising the candidates to be mindful of social media, the academy has asked them to refrain from self-promotion and impulsive postings, which could be misinterpreted or seen as unprofessional. The exam result was announced on March 6.
Further, they have been advised to following traffic rules, not litter or spit in public spaces and to be well-groomed and dressed appropriately for occasions. The academy has also asked them to maintain distance from commercial and institutional endorsements, and ensure that their achievements are not used for publicity or private gain.
“You should remain mindful, even at this stage, of avoiding posts that would or could defame the service or its members. Be diligent and judicious about posting content that could be considered unprofessional or inappropriate for an officer/member of service.
One should, in particular, refrain from impulsively posting statements on social media. Pause and reflect on the possible impact of what you are going to post. Rather, it is advisable to avoid posting any content lest it may lead to misinterpretation at an individual / institutional level,” the advisory read.
The advisory note emphasises that the role of a civil servant begins the moment they are selected. Stressing the importance of character and public behaviour, the note reminds candidates that their past and present actions will shape their reputation throughout their careers.
“You must ensure that your personal conduct and official and social interface with the general public, people’s representatives, corporate entities, civil society organisations, Government personnel, all other dignitaries and vulnerable sections of the society is courteous, respectful, dignified and appropriate,” the advisory noted. “While social media may pervade several aspects of life, and the Academy too recognises the value of social media and digital platforms in effective administration at an institutional level, any kind of social media that promotes self is strongly discouraged,” the advisory further read.
“Pause and reflect on the possible impact of what you are going to post. Rather, it is advisable to avoid posting any content lest it may lead to misinterpretation at an individual/institutional level,” it said on “social media etiquettes”.
“As a future civil servant, you are expected to be a role model throughout,” the academy said, adding that their past actions also will be a reflection of their character and personality throughout their career.
“Respect to women is central in Indian ethos. You must be gender sensitive. Maintain punctuality. “Respecting the time of others is very crucial. Do not cause any inconvenience to others in whatsoever manner,” the advisory read.
