Social Media in the Workplace: Manage Your Risk (Paper)

Mere King, Senior Associate, Buddle Findlay

Laura Chapman, Senior Associate, Kiely Thompson Caisle

Social media is part and parcel of our modern-day lives. Advances in technology mean that social media is always at our fingertips and it can often blur the boundaries between our work and personal lives. While many businesses have sought to harness the power of social media to enhance their brand and benefit their business, it is well known that social media also presents wide ranging risks in the workplace.

For businesses, risks include reducing productivity, exposure to claims for vicarious liability, potential privacy issues, risks to confidential information, IP, and business reputation. While for employees, improper use of social media can lead to disciplinary action and even dismissal.

These and other risks and issues associated with social media use in the workplace are covered in these materials in the context of recent case law.

These materials will help you:

• Become familiar with the recent case law in the area and the principles applied by the courts.
• Learn about the risks and issues associated with social media use in a pre-employment context.
• Receive guidance on using social media as a tool in workplace investigations and disciplinary proceedings.
• Become familiar with the post-employment issues that can arise.
• Learn about the jurisdictional and privacy issues.
• Receive tips on how to manage social media risk.

Intended audience

Employment lawyers and advocates, practice and business managers, HR practitioners, and anyone involved with recruitment and compliance.