Sunday, October 2, 2011

Social Networking

Just read an article from the Washington Post about lawsuits from employees who had been fired due to postings on social networks. The postings involved criticism of company they worked for , procedures, or other employees. Many employees that were fired did not win the law suit to regain their jobs or salaries, a few did. What I noticed was that the employees that did win the law suits had criticized the company or management not only on a social network site but also in person and had filed complaints. So what did I learn from this article.
1. Social networks are public forums and that should always be remembered. Never ever think that someone will never read it.
2. Freedom of speech is freedom of speech even on a social network. Freedom of speech does not mean that you are not going to be held accountable for what you say, even if you have the right to say it.
3. If you have a legitimate complaint about the business you work for, management, procedures, or employees don't let your social network be the first or only place that you report it. Follow your companies procedures and then if the need arises use other reporting procedures such as a social network.
Any other tips?
Now , what do you think about companies that urge employees to use social networking sites and blogs and even expect it?
What social networking guides have you been made aware of at your job?

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