Social Media Education is Crucial in the Workplace
As social media continues to grow, it is becoming more entrenched in the workplace. With these developing communications channels and the extensive usage of mobile technology, there is a new generation of workers who communicate differently presenting employers with new challenges.
Although, social media presents a number of opportunities to connect both internally and externally, there are also multi-layered issues which employers need to manage. The blurring of the lines between personal and professional is a key element in the management of social media risks in the workplace. Whether it is offensive comments, bullying or negative publicity, these all have impacts on organisations. How an employer manages these concerns is crucial.
Education around social media and the workplace is vital and employers can be proactive. Here are some things to consider:
Understand Social Media:
Social media is a mystery to many leaders and managers who still don’t ‘get’ social media. Employers need to educate themselves about social media, the technology and the consequences. They need to be practical, positive and find solutions.
Social Media Policy:
All organisations whether large or small with a handful of employees need a social media policy. A policy places restrictions and guidelines in place around usage and employer expectations of social media. Without this there are no boundaries. Gone are the days when an employee can say something about the employer and it remains private. If it is on social media it is public.
Partnership Between Employers and Employees:
Working together with employees is so crucial to making sure the social media policy is effective. When an employee understands the reason for the policy and accepts it they are more likely to abide by it. This is more valuable than simply providing a list of what employees can’t do on social media. Education and training form part of this element.
The impact of social media on workplaces will only continue to grow as social media usage increases. Risk management of these issues is crucial in making sure that organisations minimise their risks where social media is concerned. Education is only one part of an overall comprehensive approach.
How do you manage social media in the workplace? Share your thoughts…..
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