Social Media In The Workplace: Legal Issues & Strategies For Managing Virtual Communication At Work

Abstract

With nearly one in four people worldwide maintaining active profiles on social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter, perhaps it was inevitable that employees would begin to use these platforms to voice their work-related complaints online. As a result, many organizations have pursued an active role in developing corporate social media policies and disciplining employees who post comments critical of their workplace. Through case analysis, this thesis examines the existing standards for protected concerted activity, evaluates how the National Labor Relations Board has interpreted labor law as it is applied to work-related social media cases, and provides guidance on how organizations can craft social media policies within the boundaries of the law. Through comprehensive interviews, this thesis also discusses labor education programs to train members on appropriate social media activity, as well the way unions have taken to online platforms to connect with members and ignite innovative campaigns. iii