Things on your Facebook Account that can get you Fired
There are some great things about at-will employment; as a worker, you can leave or quit a job for any reason. No need for contracts, and no need for a two-week notice. However, at-will employment is a two-way street, since employers can fire an individual with good cause, bad cause, or no cause whatsoever. One common thing that gets people fired is Facebook, the social media website which many people use to connect with friends and family...and often post information that can result in the loss of a job. Here are five things which can get you in hot water with your boss, or possibly even fired.
1. Divulging sensitive information. Many employees don't realize that they are privy to information that can be classified as trade secrets. A trade secret is any information that gives a company an economic advantage over its competitors. Some examples could be a "secret ingredient" in a recipe, a proprietary formula, or even a business practice. Not only can divulging trade secrets lead to the loss of a job, but in certain circumstances it can even lead to legal action.
2. Badmouthing the company and/or its employees. There used to be a time when a person could get away with saying practically anything about anyone. However, that time is not the 21st century, where many things can be construed as libel, harassment, copyright infringement, racism, sexism, and slander. Post an innocuous comment about a person of a different race, and you just might find yourself accused of a "hate crime", and in trouble with your employer. Just ask Don Imus!
3. Embracing drugs and alcohol. Most of us can name one friend of co-worker who has a habit of posting pictures online showing themselves in an inebriated state. While posting an occasional picture of yourself in a bar or at a party may not be anything serious, habitually posting these pictures can make you look like an alcoholic, or someone with a substance abuse issue. Always use common sense when posting pictures!
4. Lying. Here's a classic scenario which has led to many firings: You call in to work pretending to be sick, when in actuality you decided to go to the beach for the day. If you absentmindedly decided to post pictures or a blog about your getaway, you just might find yourself looking for a new job.
5. Job hunting. Social networking is a great way to find unadvertised job openings and career opportunities, but if you aren't discreet about your job search you may find yourself getting the boot at your current job. After all, no boss wants an employee who doesn't want to be there.
These are just five examples of things on your Facebook profile that can get you fired. However, all of these situations can be avoided by using a little bit of common sense.
