Ethics in Social Media within the Workplace

 


Social media is a fine balance within the workplace, as I traveled abroad a lot for my job it was key to keep in contact with my family and friends as I was in different time zones sometimes 12 hours difference. It helped my morale as I was a way so far, especially from my dog as I was able to connect which was during work hours at times for me as it would be early evening for them. It can also give a person a mental break from the day, long days of meetings for example you just need a break from something, so checking on friends' posts can help.

I always limited my work connections on my Facebook specifically, it's a fine line, if they were a colleague and friend yes, I would connect, however I tried to avoid any leadership roles within my org just as I feel too much personal can impact your reputation even if it's nothing bad. I personally preferred LinkedIn for those work relationships and any work related posts.

Working for a very large corporation, we did significant learning and policy reviews of social media posts. They emphasized the caution of what was shared about work on any platform, as there was a bunch of confidential information or early release information you may be privy off. As this could have huge impact was cautious to share anything work related. We had clear policies which was greatly appreciated for that guidance on what you should and shouldn't share.

I have found with my volunteer work you have to also be very careful on what you share or comment on social media. We use Facebook as a key source for awareness for lost dogs, individuals can be blunt and sometimes cruel, as I represent the volunteer organization I find I have to ignore and focus on the dog. I can provide a response, but it cannot be in a way that is negative, we depend on donations to do what we do, I represent that company, so I have to be cautious. We also find if you share too much information, it can bring danger to the dog, so we limit who sees what, what we share publicly and ask others to limit what they share. 

I know the articles both that I referenced state there is a balance, I agree, personally though as long as I continue with the larger corporations, I will keep my work posts minimal, I may share ones that the company has already shared for awareness. For me is key to follow that companies policies whatever they may be, with the hope they balance the social media usage for down time especially when traveling.





Article References:

The Do's And Don'ts Of Social Media Etiquette At Work

Social Media in the Workplace: Pros, Cons & Policies

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