I lost my job because of Facebook…

Every work environment is different. While I don’t spend hours on Facebook while I’m at work, I have logged on during a typical work day. Some employers frown on using social media at work citing that it jeopardizes company security and decreases productivity across the board. That very well may be true but not in all cases, right? I guess it depends on the environment within which the employee works.

For example, LeClaire contends, “Public-relations and marketing firms — or PR and marketing divisions within larger enterprises — are among those who believe employees should be able to update their Facebook status at work.

As a PR firm, social media is a way of life for HMA Public Relations. Abbie Fink, vice president and general manager of the firm, said social networking is a critical component of how the company does business. In fact, she added, clients expect the firm to know and understand social media.

“More important to me than whether or not employees are using or viewing social media during work hours is remembering that although they may maintain personal Facebook and Twitter accounts, there is a very fine line between personal and professional in the online space,” Fink said. “You need to be careful what you post [keeping in mind that] your boss, your clients, your future boss, your grandmother… may all be on there, too.”

I don’t think a company will ever be able to completely police social media usage while at work. I think it comes down to two things. One, embracing social media to help the brand. Two, monitor usage and give employees a reasonable amount of time on social media.

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