Social Media in the Modern Workplace – What all Employers Need to Know

The last decade has witnessed the rise of ‘social media’ as a primary form of communication and interaction. Workplaces have not been spared from social media’s influence, and the use (or misuse) of social media by employees can often cause significant headaches for employers and businesses. This is most clearly illustrated by the recent legal proceeding between Israel Folau and Rugby Australia, as well as a trove of unfair dismissal and workplace bullying claims involving inappropriate online behaviour.

However, social media can also be an effective tool for employers and businesses – not only in the areas of marketing, internal communication and customer outreach, but also for risk management (for example, for conducting ‘background’ searches about prospective employees).

Peter Doughman was admitted as a solicitor of the Supreme Court of New South Wales in 2008. Peter is a graduate of Western Sydney University, with degrees in Law (LLB) and Music (B. Mus).

Following his admission as a solicitor, Peter has practiced exclusively in the areas of industrial and employment law, with prior experience in a small boutique firm and a well-respected mid-tier firm, both located in the Sydney CBD.

Peter has represented both employee and employer clients in a variety of matters including employment disputes, underpayment claims, consumer protection claims, work health and safety (WH&S) matters, and discrimination claims. Peter has represented clients in a range of litigious matters in various industrial courts and tribunals within New South Wales, as well as matters in the Federal Court, the Federal Circuit Court and the Fair Work Commission.

Peter provides practical, targeted and cost-conscious employment law advice to a wide range of employers and businesses.