Social Media and Human Resource Issues

Gentry Locke Partner Lindsey A. Coley and attorney Catherine J. Huff presented a workshop on Social Media and Human Resource Issues for businesses and members of the Smith Mountain Lake Chamber of Commerce.

Lindsey discussed how companies are turning to social media for branding, client development and service, research, recruiting, and to improve employee engagement. However, the use of social media presents real challenges for employers. Discussed during the event was (i) whether and how to monitor and regulate employees’ social media use; (ii) the use of information obtained through social media in hiring, promotion, discipline and other decisions; (iii) Developing strategies for limiting and responding to cyber-smearing and non-disparagement in social media; and (iv) the challenges of social media in litigation.

Cate provided an HR Update for attendees, which included an overview of the significant employment law developments and what to expect in 2016. Attendees learned about proposed changes to the overtime rules as well as important issues regarding leaves of absences.