Facebook, Internet and Employment Relations
The Internet continues to be both useful and damaging in the employment arena. During speeches that I give, I often mention that anything on the Internet can cause problems at work. The most recent example occurred just this week: according to ESPN a stadium worker of 6 years was fired because of a posting on his Facebook site. Dan Leone, who worked 6 years as a gate worker at the stadium where the Philadelphia Eagles play, posted, on his Facebook page, "Dan is [expletive] devastated about Dawkins signing with Denver...Dam Eagles R Retarted!!" about an Eagles player being signed by Denver after becoming a free agent. Notwithstanding the fact that Leone deleted the post, and apologized, the Eagles fired him several days after it was posted.
Practice Pointer. Facebook, as well as other web sites such as Myspace, often contain information that employers may take into account when hiring. Students, prospective employees and current employees need to be aware that many companies search these sites on a regular basis, and negative content may be a reason for applicants not getting the job they applied for or termination of current employment as Mr. Leone discoverd.
A new website, canmybossdothat began operating last week. This site, a project of Interfaith Worker Justice, states on the site that "Ethical employers should not have to face competitors who violate laws and basic decency. This site seeks to have all work honor justice and respect the laborer and employer". Cateories on this website include getting hired and fired, safety, pay, benefits and time off, unemployment insurance and how to protect your rights. According to the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the site gives "state by state advice to the unemployed [and]...provides general guidance on workplace policies and employment law and encourages people to seek legal advice for more help." Of course, on the top of the website is the following warning: "Caution: Work computers can track internet usage, including visiting and emailing this site."
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