Social Media & Businesses
I was talking with my dad the other day about this class and all the different aspects of social media that go unnoticed by a large number of users. He brought up the fact that for his work they send out social media policies that the employees are expected to follow. He later sent me the document that gave a run through of what the Toro Company (a company that produces landscape maintenance equipment such as lawnmowers, snowblowers, etc.) expects in regards to social media use.
The opening paragraph reads:
“Social media is changing the way we communicate, collaborate and engage with customers, colleagues and other external partners. It has also become a common way to share information with family and friends. As exciting as these online channels may be, they can expose the company and our brands to risk if not managed appropriately.”
It then goes on to describe specific policies to ensure the credibility of the company.
I always knew businesses were wary about what employees posted online, but I never knew formal guidelines were sent out.
15 years ago businesses didn’t have to worry much about such things, but new technology and social networking definitely change many aspects of life, whether it be for better or for worse.
