5 Social Media Tips For Workers In Wake of NLRB Ruling

The National Labor Relations Board (#NLRB) has recently declared, through a series of rulings, advisories and memos, that employers cannot fire their employees for what they post on line.  However, here are a five tips for workers to think about in posting on line:

1. We are watching you. Your employer and other co-workers are most likely following you on line, so they know what you are saying about them.
2. Don’t post anything that you would not want someone to find, whether it is your children, your parents or a future employer.
3. Before you turn to social media to complain or vent, try to step back before reacting.
4. If you go negative at least be constructive.
5. If you have something to say, say it, but don’t dwell on it.

5 Social Media Tips For Companies In Wake of NLRB Ruling

The National Labor Relations Board (#NLRB) has recently declared, through a series of rulings, advisories and memos, that employers cannot fire their employees for what they post on line.  However, here are a few tips for companies to think about as their employers turn to social media:

1. Have a social media policy outlining exactly what you expect your employees to post on line, reminding them to keep private information private.
2. If you already have a social media policy, review it and revise it.
3. Have someone monitor social media activity both internally and externally.
4. Respond to posts that need to be responded to in a timely way.
5. Turn negative chatter into positive and constructive dialogue. 

5 tips in creating a social media policy

Protect intellectual property.Never place proprietary information on-line

Respect copyrights and fair use. Always give people proper credit for their work and make you have permission to publish something.

Be responsible for what you write. Avoid language that could be considered defamatory, harassing or indecent. Before you hit send, ask, "Do I want my mom to see this?"

Bring value to the discussion. To build a following you need to bring something to the table so make your contribution significant and meaningful.

Be open, honest and authentic. Include your name, if appropriate the company and make statements in complete disclosure of any potential bias.