In Practice: Ombuds Dilemma #11 - Can I be a Social (Media) Butterfly?

Deadline extended for responses to Sunday, January 25th, 2026.

Dear In Practice,

I have been on Facebook and LinkedIn for years. I’m new to Instagram and I’m having a great time curating my profile and feed. I appreciate how these platforms provide news, information, and easy connections - but participating in social media these days seems increasingly fraught.

On Facebook I enjoy keeping up with friends and family, sharing personal updates, social concerns, and making occasional commentary. I try to compartmentalize the platform as purely personal by using a variation of my name and keeping my posts private. However, given the current climate, I’m concerned that anything I “like” or comment on could be taken out of context and/or transmitted broadly.

I maintain a low profile on LinkedIn, although I regularly receive invitations from visitors and others within my organization, asking to join my network. I always feel awkward about these requests. In contrast, Instagram feels like a different world and I’m not sure what boundaries to set given the nature of my professional role.

I value the opportunities to connect that social media provides and I don’t want to be isolated and out of the loop. Is there a way for me to manage my social media while also protecting the integrity of my role and reputation?

We invite you to respond to this dilemma with your insights, perspective, and guidance. Responses - which must be under 250 words - can be submitted by email to [email protected]. 

Please provide your submission by Sunday, January 25th for consideration. Submissions may be edited for length and clarity. In our next column, we will share a sampling of your responses and again provide a space for public comment and discussion.