If, like many agencies, you have a team of younger employees, you will be well aware of the constant barrage of sites flooding their computer screens and phones such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.
How we deal with this intrusion can make or break a team culture and productivity levels.
With a generation in our workplaces that is more tech-savvy and hungry for anything that may be technologically or socially related, we have very quickly seen the rise of sites such as these that provide daily distractions. How do we control it?
In many industries, these sites are completely banned; no access from any employee is permitted. While this is a quick and easy option, it does leave gaps as most of the younger generation may find ways around these blocks or filters. As well, there is the availability of access via smartphones. Another option could be permitting employees to use these sites only during their breaks.
It is important to implement a social media policy, ensure all employees are aware of their obligations and have them sign off on it so that you have it in writing. You can find an example of a social media policy on the platform.
Also, educate employees about the consequences of disclosing or misusing the company's confidential information or intellectual property in the social media context.
While it can be a distraction for many, these sites can also be a great marketing tool and assist in business growth and should not be taken for granted. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and even Pinterest can help raise your brand awareness and gain you popularity in the marketplace.
Many agents use these sites for landlord and tenant information, inviting them to follow their office pages and keeping them up to date with the latest news and events that are happening within their agencies and the community.
It’s a given that social media in some form is here to stay and is constantly evolving. How we react to the daily intrusion into our working lives can help us thrive or just survive. Find a solution that works well for your office and run with it.
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