We've tried to aid with this process at Mashable through articles such as Should Your Company Have a Social Media Policy? and 10 Must-Haves for Your Social Media Policy. We've also published guides like Social Media for Business: The Dos & Don’ts of Sharing.
What's more, we've looked at what happens when these guidelines go to far, like the controversy over the Associated Press social media policy, and a similar situation at the NFL.
If you're looking to define your own social media guidelines, however, one worthwhile task is to read the policies of other organizations. Chris Boudreaux, author of the upcoming book "Social Media Governance", has assembled 82 such policies on the book's website. From companies to charities to military organizations, it's a treasure trove for those struggling with social media guidelines.
We think it's super-handy: we hope you'll agree.