By: Debra Kabalkin on July 22nd, 2015
Workplace Social Media Policy Review: Pros Vs. Cons
Social Media sites like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and even Instagram are a part of the modern workplace today. These tools are no longer just for personal use since many people use them in their professional lives as well. In the workplace, social media sites are being used for purposes such as marketing, employer branding, and corporate social responsibility.
For instance, recruiters use LinkedIn to find and connect with candidates and sales professionals use it for lead generation. Many employees use Google + for the chat feature to connect instantly with colleagues or conduct industry Hangouts. As HR consultants, we are often asked about the pros and cons of allowing social media in the workplace when developing workplace social media policies.
The Pros Vs. Cons of Social Media at Work
Pros:
- Recruit/source potential candidates
- Corporate brand awareness/ employer branding
- Brand ambassadors and increased engagement
- Low cost investment
- Ability to reach a wide audience
- Targeted marketing
- Networking capabilities
- Ability to conduct research and focus groups
- Training and Development
Cons:
- Decreased productivity/ lack of focus
- Security and privacy concerns
- Inappropriate online behavior
- Brand reputation risks
If your company does not have a social media policy, it's a good idea to consider putting something in place. Here are some of the reasons why we recommend one below.
Why It's Important to Have a Social Media Policy at Work
- To communicate what is and is not acceptable social media use.
- To educate employees on safe social networking practices.
- To protect the company from misuse by employees in ways that could jeopardize the company’s reputation or negatively affect its operations, such as posting confidential company information.
Once you have explained the boundaries of the policy, make sure to monitor and update it regularly as trends regarding social media are constantly changing. As an HR best practice, your workplace social media policy should be reviewed and revised annually.
For additional information about current policies, refer to the following resources: