Social media networks have essentially revolutionised the way many businesses operate, both internally and externally. As a result, the transition from hosting workplace conversations in person to hosting them in an online environment may cause a blurring of the divisions between work and home. For employees using more casual platforms to talk to their colleagues such as Slack or Teams, particularly when working from home, it can become more difficult for employers to regulate both personal and professional information that is being shared at work.

While there are many benefits to employers of the use of social media in business, it is a double-edged sword as there can also be grave consequences for employers where employees misuse social media. For example, in Northern Ireland, there have been various instances where employees are identified through videos shared on social media singing songs or chants, resulting in their suspension and subsequent dismissal from an organisation. Although there is no legal provision which would allow an employer to control how employees choose to use their social media, it is important that employers place clear and unambiguous guidance on the consequences of misuse of social media in the workplace.

Employers should ensure that there is a standalone social media policy which makes the business' expected use of social media by its employees extremely clear. An employer’s social media policy must be clearly worded if the employer wishes to be able to rely on a breach of it in order to discipline or dismiss an employee. Employees should be advised that they should be mindful of what they are publishing online and the effect this might have on their employment or credibility in the workplace.

As social media is an everchanging area, it is important to keep all policies covering it under review and to update where necessary with refresher sessions with employees where required.

Legal Island Training Resources for Your Staff

Social Media in the Workplace | eLearning Course

Are you responsible for overseeing the implementation of training for all employees in your organisation?
Legal Island’s Social Media in the Workplace eLearning course will help employees understand how the misuse of social media can impact them and their employers, sharing practical examples and useful tips on how to use social media responsibly.

Click here to view our eLearning course on social media in the workplace.