Research shows Australian dietitians are embracing social media for personal use but more needs to be done to encourage them to use it in a professional capacity.

A Dietitians Association of Australia survey last year found 80 percent of the 700 dietitians surveyed use social media for personal reasons, with most accessing social networking sites, at 78 percent, and just four percent using micro-blogging sites like Twitter.

The survey found just 52 percent of respondents use social media in a professional capacity, with most accessing discussion forums.

The three most common reasons for using social media on a professional level were to network with colleagues, at 63 percent, to keep up with technology, at 37.5 percent, and to provide nutritional information to the public, at 24.5 percent.

DAA CEO Claire Hewat said it was important for dietitians to better engage with social media on a professional level.

“Social media is a relatively new area and poses new challenges but also exciting opportunities,” she said.

“While many people are using social media personally, it can be a big step to work in this space professionally.

“It means learning new skills and being sure to maintain professionalism and integrity, so it can take time to feel confident working in this area.

“If dietitians embrace social media, we’ll be more likely to win the race and stake our rightful place as the online ‘go to’ experts in nutrition.”

The DAA is developing a social media resource for members and student members, expected to be launched in September.

“It’s a really practical resource, focussing on tips such as maintaining professionalism and being transparent – with case study examples throughout,” Ms Hewat said.