Social Media in the Workplace: Don't Let it Cost You Your Job

Social Media In The Workplace: Don't Let It Cost You Your Job! With many of the coun y's laws pre-dati of social media, and a number of people mistakenly assuming the pr tion that the law isn't applicable to their online activity, we look at several examples of employees landing themselves in hot water due to things they've said or done online. Interesting Statistics: 46% of 18 to 24-year-olds are unaware they can be sued for defamation if they tweet an unsubstantiated rumour about someone, 46% according to research for law firm Wiggin. 52% of employers have researched job candidates on social media. 52% Of those who have researched candidates on social media, 42 per cent have found content that caused them to not hire the candidate. 42% Employees Fired: PUBLISHED HSBC employee fired for posting mock execution video on social media July 2015 PUBLISHED Dec 2013 PR Executive fired for racist Aids tweet PUBLISHED LLoyds TSB assistant fired for complaining about boss' salary April 2011 PUBLISHED April 2010 Labour election candidate fired for cursing leading politician and the elderly PUBLISHED Buckingham palace guard fired for insulting Princess Kate April 2011 PUBLISHED Feb 2015 Teacher fined for posting pro-Hitler status on Facebook Guidance for Employees: If you wouldn't want your employer to see something that you're thinking of posting on social media, don't post it. Even if you only have one colleague that is in your friends or followers list, it could still get you into trouble or sacked. If you have been accused of posting something offensive or inappropriate but don't think you have done anything wrong, speak to an employment law specialist who may be able to defend you. lan Lewis Senior Consultant - Company Commercial Law/Employment Law Guidance for Employers: I Tribunals will take many factors into account when assessing whether a dismissal for social media misconduct is fair and unbiased. A social media policy is a must-have, particularly if you allow employees to use social media during work hours. When considering dismissing an employee due to social media misconduct, check with an employment law expert who can help to confirm the extent of damage caused, before you act. lan Lewis Senior Consultant - Company Commercial Law/Employment Law Presented by: Bray & Bray