Michelle McCliman Intellectual Property Law Blog on Lawyers.com

Facebook Follies at Work

Tuesday, January 3, 2012 by Michelle McCliman

Photo of Michelle McCliman
In the age of increased social media where many more are embracing and
putting their lives and thoughts on Facebook, Twitter, and other social
media avenues, employees beware.  Everyone at some point complains about
their job, their bosses, or their co-workers.  Just keep in mind when
those complaints appear in the social media realm, it is not "private." 
Here are some ways not to cause a career implosion on social media.



First, do not insult your clients or your customers.  More importantly,
do not use profane language to describe the clients or customers.  There
have been many who have lost their jobs because of complaints put in
cyberspace via Twitter or Facebook.



Second, do not insult your employer even if you are about  to give
notice or leave.  Burning bridges is never a good idea, but to do so in a
more permanent forum is even worse. 



Third, be cognizant of the photos you post.  Posting all the photos of
you at parties with drink in hand and a face that says "drunk off my
booty," is probably not the best idea.  And, definitely learn from
Anthony Weiner's mistakes and don't post risque photos or other
inappropriate photos of yourself.



Fourth, if it is your company's, your client's, or anyone else's
confidential information, then please do not post it in a public forum.



Fifth, posting offensive comments about your employer or others will not reflect well on your character.



While certain types of comments are acceptable, discretion is always the
better part of valor.  When you post, keep in mind that Big Brother,
Big Sister, and Employer may be watching and post accordingly.
 
Posted at 20:33 PM
Topic: Intellectual Property
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