There are some bloggers who write out of vanity. They like the sound of their (virtual) voices and want to keep friends, family, and casual readers aware and informed about their hobbies, love interests, or what they really think about the hottest celebrity. Others bloggers believe they have something of genuine importance to say about a serious subject and view the World Wide Web as the fastest way to reach the largest audience. But if and when bloggers begin revealing too much about what goes on at the place where they work—as innocent as it may seem—they are veering into potentially dangerous territory with their employers.
Most bosses do not appreciate it when you write unkind things about the people with whom you work, discuss the daily comings and goings on at the office, or post digital photos taken on company property; and if you do it, you may be setting yourself up for disciplinary action. What types of blogging can qualify as grounds for termination? Well for one, if you are spending more time blogging than you are working, there could be negative consequences.
BEFORE YOU BLOG
If blogging is already your thing, or if you have the itch to write one, here are five tips to help ensure that you do not join the growing list of people who have lost their jobs over their mode of self-expression.
1. Ask about the company's blogging policy before you start.
Even if you have decided to write anonymously, you need to know upfront if you will be violating any rules and, if so, what the consequences are.
If in any way, shape, or form the subject that you have chosen to blog about is connected with your work, be honest with your employer and ask if it is acceptable for you to have a blog. Think about it; you would ask permission if you were approached about giving a speech at a conference or writing an article for a magazine that was work-related. Posting a blog with a potential readership in the millions is no different.
3. Blog on your own time.
If you are typing on the office computer over the office network connection during the time you are being paid to be doing something else, do not be surprised if your supervisors are not real happy with you. Always be respectful of your workplace, and do not take advantage of any freedom that may have been granted to you.
4. Watch your mouth, er, your keyboard.
Employees who verbally divulge company secrets about products or services or share classified documents with non-employees should expect to be fired. Use the same discretion and common sense when you are writing your blog. Do not say anything more than what you would say in front of a client, in line at the grocery store, or while at dinner with friends.
5. Be aware of the repercussions.
Whenever you post something on the Internet, you are opening yourself up for comment, good or bad. Sharing your excitement about your mother's successful LASIK procedure is not likely to draw much fire. However, if you are expressing your views about the upcoming senatorial election or the state of race relations in America, someone is probably not going to like what you have to say. You cannot please all of the people all of the time, so do think twice before you post anything that could compromise the position and/or safety of your company and co-workers.
