Statistics suggest that every second, on average, around 6,000 tweets are tweeted on Twitter. With so many tweets, one would be forgiven for thinking that one tweet would be easily lost in the traffic and quickly forgotten. Unfortunately, that does not seem to be the case. A silly, offensive or discriminatory tweet will be shared, re-posted, re-tweeted, it will be discussed world wide on various media platforms and thanks to Google will always be around to haunt the individual.
This not only prolongs an individual's embarrassment but could potentially affect their current or future employment prospects. Most business owners have zero tolerance for Facebook posts or tweets from employees that are offensive or discriminatory or that could potentially damage their brand. They are quick to end the relationship and separate their brand from the foolish or offensive post or tweet.
Below are some of my favourite examples.
| Tweet | Effect |
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What was intended for Ms Sacco's 170 followers, was re-tweeted by tech blogger to his 15,000 followers. Tens of thousands of people responded in anger. |
Employer's immediate response: "This is an outrageous, offensive comment. Employee in question currently unreachable on an into flight." She was subsequently sacked. Over a year later, Ms Sacco describes the effect as follows: "I lost my job, my reputation and I'm not able to date anymore." |
| Tweet | Effect |
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We could all learn from the above examples. Think carefully before you post or tweet a comment. Always remember your current or future employer will generally have access to your social media profile and you should always refrain from making an inappropriate or offensive comment. Employers you should have a plan in place to plan to respond to any comments made by your employees that may potentially damage your brand. A delay in responding or an inappropriate response may further damage your brand.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
