For the newest generation of workers, social media has been part of most, if not all of their lives. Their attitudes and habits in using social media are quite different from other generations. What is acceptable to one generation might be viewed totally differently to another, which is why it’s vital for employers to have a well-defined and well communicated policy on the use of social media in the workplace.
“Social media” can be broad and undefined, particularly as social media platforms can come and go in terms of popularity. So, what should employers include in their policies?
A social media policy can differ from organisation to organisation, depending on your company values, however here are some key ingredients to a social media policy:
- Be clear on what you don’t want your employees doing online;
- Who’s allowed to post on social media on your company’s behalf;
- Determine who is covered by the policy;
- Determine what conduct is covered by the policy;
- Determine the hours of coverage – for example, are they normal working hours or an extension of that?;
- Be reasonable in your expectations;
- Maintain your own organisational values.
Dismissing an employee for inappropriate use of social media
The inappropriate use of social media and the disciplinary consequences (including dismissal) can be a complex question. It’s been established by the Fair Work Commission in a number of recent cases, that misuse of social media can be a valid reason for dismissal, particularly where a social media post has the potential to cause reputational damage to the employer.
If you would like advice on the development of or reviewing of a social media policy, or you have any issues regarding the inappropriate use of social media in the workplace, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Greg Arnold – Director & Principal Consultant
Disclaimer: This article provides a summary only of the subject matter without the assumption of a duty of care by Effective Workplace Solutions. No person should rely on the contents as a substitute for legal of other professional advice.