When it comes staffers using social networking sites in the workplace, many employers feel like their hands are tied.
While they’re well aware of the dangers posed by employees using sites like Facebook and Twitter — legal issues including defamation and harassment, leaking of confidential info, damage to the company’s reputation, etc. — the majority of firms are hesitant to ban access to these sites altogether.
However, many companies agree that simply letting employees know that they are being monitored online is an effective deterrent against social-networking abuse.
While many companies have policies in place where the company has the right to monitor employees’ Web use, most firms don’t remind workers of the policy after they’re hired.
So now’s a good time to talk with HR about testing this tactic out.
Key: Telling employees they’re being monitored will only be successful if it’s combined with consistent enforcement — and even discipline if necessary.