Can a social media post that I wrote about a co-worker result in disciplinary action or even termination?
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Can a social media post that I wrote about a co-worker result in disciplinary action or even termination?
Was in a conversation on FB. I didn’t say any names, but it was vaguely about a co-worker. This co-worker found and texted me and we went back in text. I deleted the post. I am on med leave for a month, at home on FB, and on pain meds. She took this to my boss. Now I have a phone meeting to talk about this. Is this anyway legal?
Asked on October 10, 2016 under Employment Labor Law, Iowa
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 7 years ago | Contributor
Many companies have specific policies regarding social media. Therefore, you need to check what your employer's is, if any. That having been said, most employment is "at will" which mens that an employer can set the conditions of employment much as it ses fit. This includes who to discipline and why. In fact, a worker can be suspended, demoted or terminated for any reason or no reason at all. There a few limiatations as to this regarding social media posts but your situation does not appear to fall into them. For further indormation, here is a link to a site that will explain further:
https://employment-law.freeadvice.com/employment-law/firing/social-networking-policy.htm
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