'Facebook Got Me Fired!': Social media sackings and the new world of employee privacy

Abstract

Regardless of whether you are addicted to social media, or if you don't know the difference between a 'poke' or a 'tweet', social media has taken over our lives to such a degree that it has become intertwined with both our personal and professional dealings. Increasingly, the content of social media posts are having an impact upon the workplace, particularly where an employee uses social media to comment upon work or other employees. This presentation explores the applicable law in this area, providing an analysis of social media use and abuse by employees and employers. It highlights the importance of establishing a social media policy within the workplace, and provides guidance to employers and employees as to how they can become social media savvy.