Johannesburg, 06 Nov 2015
In business, reputation is everything, social media commands respect and all companies must proceed with caution when embracing networks to recruit, share information or keep tabs on competition.
These were just a few of the main ideas explored and discussed at the 59th Annual IPM (Institute of People Management (IPM) Convention & Exhibition hosted recently at Sun City, Northern Province.
According to the messages regularly posted throughout this event, there is a clear understanding that privacy is a grey area when it comes to social networks and corporate presence, that users must be aware of issues like liability and the digital format must be respected - always.
Samples recorded from the convention include: -
"Be careful about biting the hand that feeds you on social media ... your employer #IPMACE2015"
"Don't think you are anonymous online #IPMACE2015"
"Platforms are not bad guys - just think about your information and what you share #SocialMedia #IPMACE2015"
"The Chain of Publication - every person who has the ability to stop publication should. Applies to your Facebook page #IPMACE2015"
Leading service and solution providers focused on Human Resources and Human Capital Management have complimented delegates on their level of awareness of issues and the fact that they continue to take these issues seriously.
"I was very impressed with the points raised by delegates... there is a genuine desire to have these issues addressed and to share ideas on how best to approach real challenges that impact daily operations," says James McKerrell, CEO of CRS Technologies.
The company is a leading provider of services and solutions targeted at the HR and HCM markets, and was a proud sponsor of the event.
McKerrell says that social media is without question one of the most significant influences within workforce management today, used for recruitment, to enforce and direct campaigns, and remain in constant contact with clients, customers and partners.
According to statistics released during the convention Facebook has 16 million active users in South Africa, while LinkedIn has 3.8 million.
"It was also interesting to note that the majority of businesses realise that it is not a question of whether or not to be a part of social media or engage platforms, it is rather a matter of how, when, where and what - specifically in terms of making information public, access, security and privacy," said McKerrell.
As long as markets are driven by the need to manage information, handle big data and leverage collaboration while maintaining security, the issue of social media engagement will remain relevant and influential.
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