Workplace Social Media Policy

This Social Media Policy provides employees with rules on personal use of social media outside of work and how to appropriately use social media in the workplace when it fits the employee's job description.

This Policy alerts employees that posting on an online blog, even while using a pseudonym (fake name), is problematic and can be damaging to the employer or other fellow employees. The Policy also deals with employer investigations of social media blogs and content created by their employees. As stated in this document, failure to adhere to the Policy may lead to disciplinary action including termination.

HOW TO USE THIS DOCUMENT

This Policy document is meant to be given from the employer to employees. If the employer has a physical office location, keep a copy of the Policy in an accessible place.

Employers should include this Policy in a new employee's welcome package to ensure they are familiar with workplace protocol and avoid any future doubt that they were unaware of a specific social media rule.

When significant changes arise in the Policy, the employer should provide a copy of the new Policy to all staff in a timely manner. Also, as a reminder, this Social Media Policy should be broadcasted every year to all employees of the organization.

Employees should also sign the acknowledgement at the end of the document confirming they read and understand the Policy. The employer should then add a copy of the signed Policy to each employee's file.

APPLICABLE LAW

Employment policies must be consistent with the law. In Canada, employment law is governed by legislation and case law. At the federal level, the applicable statute is the Canada Labour Code (R.S.C., 1985, c. L-2). Each province will have their counterpart piece of legislation. For example, in Ontario, the applicable law is the Employment Standards Act, 2000, S.O. 2000, c. 41.

Workplace Policies should be periodically updated and brought to the attention of employees. Employees should be made aware that disciplinary measures are taken for Policy violations, including possible termination.

HOW TO MODIFY THE TEMPLATE

You fill out a form. The document is created before your eyes as you respond to the questions.

At the end, you receive it in Word and PDF formats. You can modify it and reuse it.