Internet experts estimate that over eight 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 (www.RobinBond.com). “Writing a blog is the online equivalent of publishing your opinions in the local paper — laws of libel, slander and defamation of character do apply.”
With over 27 percent of Internet users reading blogs, bloggers need to remember that current or future employers can read what they write and hold it against them. 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.
