Responsible communications

Building Trust and Reputation Through Responsible Communications

HOW WE WIN

We strengthen our brand and stakeholder relationships through thoughtful, accurate and consistent communications and responsible engagement with social media.

WHY WE PUT VALUES FIRST

We communicate truthfully, accurately and consistently with customers, investors and other stakeholders. This is essential to building a business based on trust, long-term relationships and mutual value, rather than mere transactions. We remember that we are all ambassadors for the Johnson Controls brand. We express our value in the marketplace and preserve our reputation by using social media responsibly and by letting colleagues with the proper authority and experience handle external inquiries.

WHAT WINNING LOOKS LIKE

We strengthen our brand and relationships by:

  • Following our Communications Policy when handling external inquiries or engaging with social media
  • Only communicating information on behalf of Johnson Controls if authorized to do so
  • Being courteous and professional in our online exchanges
  • Remembering that our online activity, even outside work, could help or hurt Johnson Controls
  • Identifying opinions as our own unless we are authorized to speak on Johnson Controls’ behalf
  • Never disclosing confidential or proprietary information (about our Company, customers or other business partners)
  • Not sharing internal employee communications such as general emails or portal stories
  • Never posting illegal content or anything that could reasonably make others feel bullied or threatened
  • Not letting social media activities interfere with our job responsibilities at Johnson Controls

WE CONNECT, COMMUNICATE AND LEARN THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA

Social media is a powerful tool that connects Johnson Controls with our customers, communities and stakeholders all around the globe – instantly. It allows us to strengthen our relationships and build our brand. Many of us use social media in our personal lives, to stay informed and in touch with friends and family. Being mindful of our online presence, and thoughtful about what we post, minimizes the risk of something being misinterpreted or taken out of context.

THINK FIRST

Q:

I follow one of my coworkers on social media. At times, he posts content that refers to the Company’s leadership in a negative way. His profile clearly identifies himself as a Johnson Controls employee. I know that he has the right to openly express his personal opinions, but this does not feel right. Is he in violation of any of our policies or guidelines?

A:

No, your colleague did not violate any of our policies or guidelines. He is entitled to express his personal opinion, but he may want to consider a less public way to express his views about the Company. Though social media gives us new and far-reaching ways to communicate, the same principles of good judgment apply as in more traditional communications: employees must not present their opinions as those of the Company unless authorized to do so; they must not share confidential, non-public  information; and they must not say things that are abusive or against the law.