Monday 2nd August 2010

Employees & Social Media

Social Media in the Workplace

In a past edition of our Gravitate HR newsletter, I highlighted the growing interest in social media policies in the workplace. Over recent months, there have been reports of sackings across a number of organisations where employees have 'inappropriately' posted on their personal networking sites. I thought it would be important to share these with you to explain why social media policies are becoming the norm in employment.

Facebook Comments

A number of Cabin Crew from an international airline were sacked following a series of comments referring to passengers as 'Chavs' and to the hygiene on board a plane. Following an investigation, the crew were sacked for 'bringing the Company into disrepute.'

Facebook Recruitment?

There has been a lot of discussion about whether it is safe and fair to vet potential candidates using social media sites. Whilst we could not say that such a practice is illegal, as the sites are public, unless made private by the individual, it may be frowned upon. For example, a candidate may be able to bring a successful claim for a protected characteristic if they felt that they had been turned down for a job as a result.

Social Media Policies

Having a social media policy in place really recognises the importance of social networking and social media in the workplace. It would ensure that employees are aware of the implications of posting on their comments on their own pages, but also for managers to ensure that best practice in the use of social media in the workplace is monitored. This can be particularly helpful where your organisation has a Twitter account, Blog, LinkedIN page, Facebook page!