10/12/2007
Facing the consequences of Facebook
The ever increasing popularity of social networking sites such as Facebook, MySpace, Bebo and Friend Finder is becoming a potential cause for concern in the workplace, not only for employers and employees but also for those seeking employment. Such sites have become widely used by individuals to conduct their social lives online, discuss interests, organise events, make new friends and to share gossip.
Many employers are concerned about staff wasting time on such sites during the working day and have have taken measures to ban their use. Employers are also concerned about staff posting information on networking sites as they may be liable for the disclosure of any confidential information .
Employees need to be aware that their personal information and behaviour online may be available for clients and/or their employers and business associates to view.
As a result they could face disciplinary action, for example, if their behaviour amounts to discrimination, bullying or harrassment of other employees or if they act in a way that is likely to bring their employer’s name into disrepute, this could potentially amount to gross misconduct.
Users of networking sites should also be mindful that it is possible for employers to use the sites to ‘vet’ job applicants or even to check on their existing staff. Such methods have been condemned as “facebook stalking”but it seems that provided employer is not discriminating against the individual it is not unlawful or actionable.
So be on your guard when using a social networking site or you may have to face very serious consequences at work
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