Employers should have social media policies in place to protect their employees and the company’s image. Social media is a powerful tool that can be used for good or bad, and employers need to be aware of the risks so they can make informed decisions about how to use it.
When employees use social media for personal reasons, it can be helpful to communicate company policies and expectations. Employees should know what behaviour is permissible and what is not before posting anything online. Also, it’s important for management to be familiar with what employees are posting on social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Employers can use social media to promote the company and its products. They can promote their products and services through their own accounts and by engaging with customers and prospects on social networks. Company accounts or profiles can also be set up on various social networking sites.
However, it’s important to be cautious about what information is shared. For example, it’s not appropriate to post confidential information or images that could damage the company’s reputation. Employers also need to ensure their website and social media networks don’t contain any inaccurate information that could mislead customers or clients.
Employers should also have policies in place about how social media will be used at work. Employees should be reminded not to use personal social media accounts for work purposes. This includes using company accounts for personal networking, posting inappropriate content, and sending sensitive information to colleagues.
WHAT NEEDS TO BE INCLUDED IN A SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY?
- Rules and regulations
The policy should clearly outline what is allowed and what is not allowed when using social media as an employee. This can include rules for posting on the employees’ personal accounts and the company’s account when it comes to mentioning the company, the brand, or any stakeholders in any way.
- Potential risks
The policy should clearly state the potential risks an employee faces when using social media in their personal and professional capacity. Examples can be included and this should act as a kind of warning of “what can happen”.
- Accountability
A social media policy should clearly state that if an employee breaks any of the rules and puts the company’s reputation at risk, he or she will be held accountable and there will be consequences. This can be either in the form of warnings, hearings, or dismissal, depending on the violation.
- Monitoring and controlling social media use
Social media policies usually contain rules about when and how the employer can monitor the use of social networks among employees. This can include requiring passwords and logins for certain platforms or having access to specific social media accounts.
Controlling the use of social media can include deleting any defamatory comments posted on behalf of an employee as well as issuing termination if the person does not comply with the social media policy and the terms and conditions outlined in the company’s handbook.
