Think Before You Post
The workplace risks of end of year parties and social functions have been the subject of numerous blogs and online articles in recent years. They have warned about what can go wrong if employers are not alert to the risks, particularly around alcohol consumption, and provided tips for ensuring these occasions are safe, inclusive and free from harassment and bullying.
It is natural to want our work and private lives to be separate. This extends to social media, where we want to feel free to post what we want and share photos and videos of things that appeal to us.
But different rules apply when it comes to posting about the people we work with and extends to work-organised social events. It is important to understand that an employer’s obligation to ensure their workplace is safe and free from discrimination, harassment and bullying extends to work-organised functions, such as end of year social events.
Employees that post inappropriate content on social media – for example, an embarrassing photo of a colleague affected by alcohol – can be the subject of disciplinary action, even if it occurs out of business hours.
Employers should be proactive in responding to this risk in the lead up to any work-organised end of year social event. We would suggest communicating with staff to:
- remind them of their obligations under the social media policy and the consequences of non-compliance
- make them aware of the impact an inappropriate post can have on workplace morale and relationships
- encourage them to be respectful of their colleagues and seek their permission before posting content about them on social media.
Wishing everyone a happy and safe Christmas from Noble Shore.
To find out more, contact us on 1300 822 694
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