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Reviewer Code of Conduct

Your Voice. Our Integrity.

Before you rate your university, please read our community standards. Honest feedback only works when everyone plays by the same fair, transparent rules.

Your Feedback Shapes the Future of Academic Workplaces

By participating in the Higher Education Employer Rankings you agree to the standards below. These rules protect every reviewer, maintain data integrity, and ensure the rankings remain the most trusted source in academia.

By Proceeding You Agree To:

Authenticity

I am a current employee of the institution I am rating and will provide honest feedback based on my personal, lived experience.

Professionalism

I will not include hate speech, threats, or defamatory language. I will focus on systems, culture, and leadership — never personal attacks.

Verification

My institutional email is used only for verification. My identity remains strictly confidential and will never be shared with my employer.

Recency

I understand my rating is active for exactly 12 months. I may return anytime to edit it and reset the clock.

Independence

I certify that I am rating of my own free will. I have not been coached, incentivized, or pressured by my employer.

Constructive Feedback

My suggestions and testimonials will be honest yet professional and aimed at helping my institution improve for everyone.

I have read and agree to the Code of Conduct
Start Ranking My Employer← Back to Rankings

You can return to this page anytime from the rating flow.

Why These Rules Protect Everyone

Protects Reviewers

Your identity stays 100% confidential. No retaliation possible.

Prevents Abuse

No review bombing, coaching, or fake accounts. Penalties are public and immediate.

Builds Trust

Candidates and universities alike know every ranking is based on genuine, current employee voices.

Still have questions?

← Return to Higher Education Employer RankingsLearn the Full Methodology →HR Quick Start Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions about our Reviewer Code of Conduct

What is the Reviewer Code of Conduct?

Our community standards ensure every review is authentic, professional, and constructive. By agreeing, you help maintain the highest level of trust and transparency in higher education employer rankings.

Why do we require verification and the 12-month rule?

Verification with your institutional email confirms you are a current employee. The 12-month rule keeps every ranking current and relevant — ratings automatically expire so the data always reflects today’s workplace reality.

How is my anonymity protected?

Your identity is never shared with your employer or anyone outside our Integrity Team. Comments can be fully anonymous or public at your choice — only the verification email is used to confirm you are eligible to rate.

Can I be honest even if my feedback is critical?

Yes — we encourage raw honesty. However, comments must focus on systems, culture, and leadership, never personal attacks, hate speech, or defamation. Malicious content is removed to protect the integrity of the platform.

What happens if an employer tries to influence reviews?

Coaching, incentives, or scripting reviews is strictly prohibited. Violations trigger an immediate Ranking Penalty and a public warning badge on the university’s profile. We protect reviewer independence at all costs.

What should I include in my comments and suggestions?

Be specific, professional, and constructive. Focus on what’s working well and what could improve. Your suggestions become powerful, actionable feedback that helps universities evolve into better workplaces.