Develop And Implement An Effective Social Media Policy
Social Media is a legal mine field if not handled properly by the business owner.
Andrew Singer is an employment law specialist. He recently offered insights into potential high-risk situations at a May 2011 gathering of Vistage International CEO members in New York City. Here are 6 areas of vulnerability he suggests deserve business owner attention. (Read his complete document here: Employers Must Consider Implementing Social Media Policies.)
Mistaken Use of Firm Identity
Avoid the impression that an employee is speaking or writing on behalf of the company when the employee is in fact acting on his or her own.
Conflict with Employment Responsibilities
Social Media use should not conflict with professional obligations or work responsibilities. This includes promoting competitive services, unrelated commercial activity, and excessive workplace use.
Confidentiality and Intellectual Property Protection
Protect client contact information and avoid unauthorized use of intellectual property such as trademarks and logos.
Employee Performance Feedback
Protect against comments that may be inconsistent with or contrary to company positions.
Workplace and Co-Worker Privacy
Employees must be mindful of the privacy rights of their co-workers and those they supervise, avoiding any breach of confidentiality or unauthorized/unlawful access to the social media platform.
Employer’s Right to Monitor
With this two-edged sword, employers have the right to lawfully monitor employee use of social media, but must avoid unlawful discrimination.
Action Plan
Andrew suggests two actions: a common sense approach and a well-crafted social media policy.
In the final analysis, it is preferable to take sensible precautions now to avoid problems in the future.
BEYOND SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY
Social Media policy is one of several foundational elements of an effective Social Media strategy. Learn how to manage Social Media complexity with the following:
The Role of Social Media in Business and Marketing Strategy
Video/Slide Presentation: How to Get Started With Social Media
Photo Credit: Boss Tweed