May 18, 2012
Social Media Policy: The newest chapter in the Employee Handbook
Have Facebook, LinkedIn, or blogs become a regular part of your business landscape? Companies and individuals alike are using these pipelines on a daily basis now; a huge shift from a few years ago. While the social media toolbox is full of opportunities to build a corporate or personal brand, there are huge liabilities to be aware of.
One proactive solution to the issue is a Social Media Policy. These protocols, or pre-determined communication strategies, are becoming the newest chapter in many employee handbooks. By defining what may and may not be shared via the social media pipelines, a company's management can inform employees that their actions, while seemingly in a "personal" webspace, may still result in negative implications for the company and, in turn, the employee. Employees need to be aware that their comments in social media-ville may ultimately be linked back to the company for whom they work. The reality is that it's nearly impossible to unhitch a person from their company in the age of social media.
A few items that may be included in the Policy are 1: A clear company philosophy towards social media. Is it alright for employees to do it on the clock? 2: Identifying oneself as an employee of the company. If an employee discloses their employer in the online profile, they should realize they take on the responsibility of being a representative of the company...and should act accordingly. 3: Referring to clients, customers, or partners. Are employees allowed to make reference to these? Are there guidelines needed to define how or in what context? 4: Disciplinary action - this is an important part of the policy. Employees should be aware of the consequences they can expect for violating the policy, up to and including grounds for termination.
Social media is the newest frontier in public relations and marketing. Companies who take proactive measures will help control the risks associated with it. Contact your insurance agent, risk control manager or trusted advisors for more information on this topic.
