It seems like the world lately revolves around social media. It figures prominently in our day to day lives and almost everyone is in on the act. From our POTUS down to our children. With multiple platforms on multiple devices, we are embroiled daily. What happens when social media works its way into the work day? Should employees be allowed to use social media during working hours? What if they are using your bandwidth? These are some really great questions that you should be asking yourself if you are a business owner. Having a well though-out social media policy for your company should be a priority.

There are many reasons why employees use social media at work. According to a PEW Research Center survey, the number one reason why workers use social media during the work day is to take a mental break from work. Are employees misusing social media while they are supposed to be working? Could be…

Every employee in your company should sign off on a social media use policy. What should be included in that policy? Here are some suggestions:

Employees should be aware of the effect their actions may have on their images, as well as the Company’s image.

Employees should be aware that the Company may observe content and information made available by employees through social media. Employees should use their best judgment in posting material that is neither inappropriate nor harmful to the Company, its employees, or customers.

Employees are not to publish, post or release any information that is considered confidential or not public. If there are questions about what is considered confidential, employees should check with the Human Resources Department and/or supervisor.

Social media use shouldn’t interfere with employee’s responsibilities at the Company. The Company’s computer systems are to be used for business purposes only. When using the Company’s computer systems, use of social media for business purposes is allowed (you can list the platforms that they are allowed to use). Personal use of social media networks or personal blogging of online content is discouraged and could result in disciplinary action.

All online activity during working hours using the Company’s computers can and may be monitored by management. Excessive use or inappropriate use of social media during working hours could lead to disciplinary action or dismissal.

Employees found using their personal devices for personal social media purposes during working hours could lead to disciplinary action or dismissal.

Maintain a strong but flexible social media policy for your company should be your goal. You do want to limit the amount of personal use during working hours but you also want to encourage liking, sharing, commenting and promoting the company’s social media presence. Involving your employees in the company’s social media helps spread the word and makes your employees feel engaged within the business. If your employees are part of your sales team, using social media for lead generation should be encourage but may require a separate policy.

If you would like social media training for your employees or a consultation for social media strategy and execution, do not hesitate in reaching out to me.