Social Media Policies Can Create an HR Nightmare
43% - of Businesses have disciplined employees regarding misuse of social media
45% - of Businesses have no social media policy whatsoever
76% - of Businesses use social media for communication or marketing
While social media enables communication, it also has the power to create an HR nightmare when sensitive workplace information is shared. Many employers are leaving themselves vulnerable to potential Human Resource lawsuits by failing to implement clear social media policies or train employees on its appropriate use, as happened to American Medical Response.
Younger employees who have grown up with social media may fail to understand the permanence or the implications of posting on the internet. Pictures and written words can remain on sites for years or can be used out of context. An innocent posting could damage the reputation of the organization or be misinterpreted by the reader. Employers must develop a social media policy AND train employees on appropriate use regarding trade secrets, sales information, and company activities.
Employer’s policies should not prohibit activity protected by federal labor law and the National Labor Relations Board. For help creating a sound proof Social Media Policy, contact SharedHR.