Should Firms Monitor Employees' Social Networking?

Source: CPA Practice Management Forum

Sixty percent of business executives believe they have a right to know how employees portray themselves and their organizations in online social networks, according to the results of Deloitte LLP's third annual Ethics & Workplace survey. Results, with which employees disagree, were announced on May 18, 2009.

The survey also finds that clearly defined company guidelines will not change how nearly half of respondents behave in cyberspace. Therefore, attempts to mitigate reputational risk in these online communities should include an emphasis on culture, values and ethics within an organization. By reinforcing these fundamental elements, business leaders will have the opportunity to encourage good decision-making in virtual social networking environments.

The complete results of the 2009 Ethics & Workplace survey reflect opinions of employees and business executives on questions on ethics, work-life balance, reputational risk and the prevalence of boardroom participation as it relates to increased employee social networking.

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From CPA Practice Management Forum, CCH Incorporated, 800-449-8114, July 2009, p. 21, "Survey Examines the Reputational Risk Implications of Social Networking."