(Editor’s Note: I’m very excited to share with you this new series, sponsored by SilkRoad technology. SilkRoad is a leading global provider of cloud-based social talent management software. Learn more about their award-winning Life Suite by requesting a demo of their HR software.)
Years ago, it used to be a company’s website presence or absence was the indicator of how progressive and forward-thinking they were. Now, every company serious about doing business has a website. I’d venture to say that companies design their websites before they think about brochures.
Today, the new litmus test is social media. The scales are tipping against companies who block all forms of social media. In fact, according to new research by SilkRoad technology, companies can ban social media all they want but it doesn’t stop employees from using it.
What I found interesting is what employees said they use social media for: connections. Whether it’s connecting with co-workers or customers, using social media to build relationships is important. Check out this infographic created from their latest report, Social media & Workplace Collaboration: 2012 Latest Practices, Key Findings, Hottest Topics.
Russel Stuart says
Social media is here to stay, and it will become even more pervasive at the workplace. About why employers still have reservations about allowing employees to use social media at the workplace; the answer perhaps lies in the slide on top 3 reasons for which people use social media at work: using it for fun takes precedence over using it for connecting with customers. Obviously, no employer would like employees to waste working hours on Facebook and Twitter!
Is it outlandish to think that this ‘social media-izing’ is because more respondents feel that there is a mismatch between their job description and the job they do? Is social media an outlet for whiling their time, since it is implied that they find nothing creative or interesting at work?
Sharlyn Lauby says
@Russel – Thanks for sharing. I’ve always found if you hold people accountable for the work (versus time); it’s a recipe for success. Your point about creating interesting work is spot-on.
Russel Stuart says
Glad you liked the point I made. Your observation about making people accountable for work and not for the time they put in at office is very apt. Most managers seem to resist the idea of giving freedom to colleagues or offer teleworking because they attach greater importance to hours than work done. When you judge and hold them accountable by work done and not by the other criterion; you need have no worries about whether employees are dropping kids to school during office hours or are watching an NBA match. If they exceed their limit, they know more than anybody else, what is in store for them.