When Facebook Rants Backfire

(If you are easily offended, you probably shouldn't read any further!)

Hey there, HR & policy enthusiasts.

Following on from last week and some great messages and feedback, I have decided to stay on the topic of social media policy

So, without further ado, let's crack on!

Today, we’re diving into a courtroom drama with more plot twists than a daytime soap. Buckle up, because we're talking about the case of Teggart vs TeleTech UK a classic tale of Facebook posts gone horribly wrong.

Facebook, Freedom, and a Whole Lot of Faux Pas

Meet Mr Teggart, an employee at TeleTech UK Ltd. One day, whilst feeling particularly chatty, he took to Facebook to share his unfiltered thoughts about a female colleague, Sandra.

His comments included such gems as "Sandra is so clueless, she couldn't find her way out of a paper bag!" and "I wonder if Sandra even knows what day of the week it is." But the pièce de résistance was, "Who at TeleTech hasn't slept with Sandra?” and "Can't believe they let Sandra work here. She's a total joke." The latter of these comments proved to be somewhat career-limiting for Mr Teggart.

Unsurprisingly, TeleTech didn't see the humour… and nor did Sandra!

Mr Teggart was promptly dismissed, and he then took the company to a tribunal, claiming unfair dismissal. He argued that his Facebook posts were a private matter, a product of his off-duty hours, and should have no bearing on his professional life.

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The Courtroom Comedy

During the tribunal, the judge reviewed Teggart’s Facebook feed. Teggart’s defence hinged on the notion that what happens on Facebook, stays on Facebook. But the court, much like your nosy aunt, wasn’t buying it.

TeleTech countered by highlighting the visibility of Teggart’s posts. They argued that the comments were public, damaging the company's reputation and creating a hostile work environment for Sandra. The tribunal agreed, that freedom of speech doesn’t equate to freedom from consequences. Mr Teggart’s posts were a breach of the company’s social media policy and constituted harassment.

The Implications: Facebook Faux Pas Fails

The ruling in TeleTech’s favour sent a clear message: When it comes to social media, there’s no such thing as a private rant if it’s out there for the world (or your 500+ friends) to see. Here are a few takeaways for all you social media aficionados:

1. Think Before You Post: Your right to express yourself doesn’t shield you from repercussions. If it’s something you wouldn’t say in a boardroom, it’s best not to say it online.
2. Privacy Settings Are Your Friend: Even if you’re venting to your circle, ensure your posts aren’t inadvertently public. A stray comment can easily find its way into the wrong hands.
3. Work and Social Media Mix Like Oil and Water: Ranting about colleagues or your job is a surefire way to attract trouble. Keep work-related grievances off social media and address them through appropriate channels.
4. Company Policies Matter: Understand your employer’s social media policy. Ignorance won’t be much of a defence when you’re called out for crossing the line.

Lessons and Learning

The Teggart vs TeleTech UK Ltd case is a stark reminder that our online personas are extensions of our real selves. What seems like a harmless joke or a fleeting moment of frustration can spiral into serious consequences, especially when it’s about our workplace.

So, next time you’re tempted to post that spicy hot take about your boss or coworker, pause. Would you say it to their face? Would you want your employer to read it? If the answer is no, it might be wise to keep that post in the drafts—or better yet, delete it altogether.

Remember folks, the internet is forever, and so are the screenshots. Stay smart, stay professional, and save the drama. Happy posting!

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