Using Social Media and Cell Phones in The Workplace - Example of Guidelines

Balancing the use of Cell Phones in the Workplace.

With cell phone usage in the workplace becoming an issue of concern, employers are looking for guidelines that are flexible and fair.

Some companies do not allow cell phone usage in the work place, only on personal break time, and that is OKAY if your job requires your full undivided attention. But there are companies that have a strong social media culture and may need guidelines to help control situations that may arise when productivity is affected. Below is an example of a social media policy and cell phone requirements. Depending  on the kind of business category you fall into, you  can adjust the wording according to the needs of your office culture.

Expect all employees to follow this Policy

Social Media refers to online platforms such as blogs, social networks, chat rooms, and forums. This policy covers all of them.

Two Elements

1.       Using personal social media at work

2.       Representing our company through social media

PERSONAL
Productivity will not be affected

      ~     Use common sense- we expect every employee to act responsible and ensure their productivity is not affected. 

o   If an employee neglects their job duties and there is a decline in productivity, due to the use of a cell phone or company computer, it will be reflected on their performance reviews.

Protect the company's Intellectual Property

     ~     Avoid sharing trademarks, trade secrets, industrial design rights, copy write, patents. Private policies and laws apply.

     ~     Identify yourself by name and your title when discussing the company name.

o   Do not use “we”, “us”, or “our” on behalf of the company.

o   Ensure people know that your personal account or statements do not represent the company.

Avoid invasion of colleagues or associates privacy.

~     Avoid offensive, derogatory and slanderous content.

~     Never post a photo without asking for photo consent 

COMPANY
When using Social Media to represent the company

~     Be responsible to protect the company’s reputation and image.

~     Provide worthwhile information taking responsibility of the content you publish.

~     Use positive and valuable information avoiding profanity, ethnic slurs, and obscenity.

~     Avoid engaging in any online conduct that would cause questions to your reputation or character.

General cell phone usage requirements:

Turn off your ringtone.

Use your cell phone for important calls only.

Let voicemail pick up your calls.

Don't look at your cell phone during meetings (unless advised by the speaker).

Find a private place to make cell phone calls.

By signing below you have read and understand the Social Media and Cell Phone Policies and requirement.

Signature: __________________________________________DATE:_________



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