MEMO

DATE: February 14, 2019

TO: Byron Hobbes
FROM: Brent Thompson, Online Presence Intern
SUBJECT: Social Media
 
As per your request, I have been slaving over the informal Brown Bag Lunch talk (for
March 5). I appreciate this opportunity. If you can think of any points to add to the
items, please feel free to let me know. I would like to discuss three major points
related to using social media responsibly and hoping that these points will open a
broader discussion of proper practices.

Primarily, as you know, we do have an Internet policy here at Acton, but it has no
mention of any social media platforms as it was written ages ago. So, my three
points will focus mainly on existing company policy which has always allowed limited
personal Internet use by employees. But, as I have mentioned, it does not point out
social media specifically. My advice is to stay away from social media on company
computers. After all, we are not being paid to check our Facebook profiles, read
News Feeds, or send tweets.

Secondly, I would recommend everyone to use a disclaimer such as “The opinions

expressed are mine and do not reflect those of my employer” in case you have a
personal blog, and you mention where you work. Remember, you represent Acton
no matter where you go.

The last point I like to point out refers to badmouthing and negative references. You
may think that your social media sites are private and secure. Don’t ever criticize the
company, a colleague, or a customer on social media. This kind of backbiting gives
you a negative remark and it decreases your chance of getting hired in case you
apply for another job.