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Blabbing Bloggers Beware: What You Write Can Get You Fired - Philadelphia-Area Workplace Expert Robin Bond, Esq. Explains How to Keep Your Job While Writing a BlogWAYNE, Pa. --(Business Wire)-- Sept. 2, 2005 -- Internet experts estimate that over 8 million people write web logs or blogs. Often these virtual diaries detail the personal lives of individuals--and their very real experiences, including frustrations at office, off-duty escapades, or even off-color content. Since most blogs are public, workers need to remember that what they write can get them fired. For example, 27 employees of the Auto Club of California were fired for blogs they posted on the popular networking site MySpace. Their blogs discussed taboo topics like co-workers' sexual orientation and weight. "Don't be deceived by the sense of anonymity the Internet fosters," cautions Robin Bond. "Writing a blog is the online equivalent of publishing you opinions in the local paper--laws of libel, slander and defamation of character do apply." With over 27% of Internet users reading blogs, bloggers need to remember that current or future employers can read what they write and hold it against them. The first amendment was designed to protect against government censorship, not employer censorship. Bond points out, "in most states, employment is at will, which means employers can terminate employees at any time and for any reason." "Many bloggers that got fired from their jobs found out the hard way," warns Bond. "Before posting anything to the net, ask your supervisor or HR person if your company has a blog policy." There are guidelines would-be bloggers can follow to ensure their blog doesn't cause them to lose their job: -- Don't tell company secrets. Non-disclosure contracts apply to the blogosphere. -- Use a disclaimer. Make it clear that opinions stated are yours alone. -- Respect the laws. Copyright laws apply to blogs. -- Don't name names. Using names of people can get you in hot water, especially if you are making defamatory remarks. -- Use good judgment and common sense--blogs are a public forum. Robin Bond has contributed advice to leading national news outlets such as the Wall Street Journal, Forbes Magazine, Women's Health Magazine, The Boston Globe and Comcast Newsmakers. Bond, a practicing employment attorney, is also certified as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR). More of Robin's advice can be found online at www.RobinBond.com |
