Social Media May Cause Unemployment

In this economy, there is always someone out there ready to fill your desk space. Now that more companies are using social media for a variety of reasons, they might just see your on line griping as a great reason to let you go.

Aside from completely stepping away from social media and never tweeting a word again, there are ways to remain 'social' and not lose your job. A good rule might be to not use Twitter immediately after you didn't get the raise you were hoping for. It's also not a good idea to update your Facebook status with anything derogatory about your boss. Chances are that the person in the next cubicle wants your job. That person will have no problem showing your update to the boss -- if he hasn't seen it already.

Posting pictures of yourself at big party might not be reason to fire you. However,if your work is slipping because you are partying all night, you might find yourself partying without a paycheck. Be careful what you post and never post pictures of your co-workers or boss unless you really don't value your job.

Here are some tips that might come in handy--and keep you on the job.

Do not announce interviews, raises or new jobs

How you talk about any of these sensitive topics on your social networking site is key. If you're unemployed, writing "Interview today -- wish me luck!" would be OK, or if you got a job, something along the lines of "So excited about my new job!" is totally acceptable. If you're currently employed, however, I don't think your boss would be too happy to see something like, "Trying to con my boss into giving me a $5K raise."

Don't badmouth your current or previous employer

Just like in an interview, keep your rants about your boss or company to yourself. If hiring managers see that you're willing to trash a colleague on line they assume you'll do it to them, too. Plus, there's always the possibility of getting fired if someone sees your negative comments.

Don't mention your job search if you're still employed

If your boss knows you're on the lookout for a new job, feel free to advertise it in your status. If you're keeping your search below the radar, however, don't publish anything, anywhere. Even if you aren't connected to your boss on line, somebody can get the information back to him or her.

Jobs are at a premium right now. If you are currently employed, keep your social media talk at a professional level. You may find yourself in the unemployment line if you don't.

Read about a blogger who ended up losing her unemployment here.

Cheryl Phillips
Exclusive to HULIQ.com