Question

1.How can companies use social networks internally; that is, by limiting access to employees of the company?

Answer 1

While social media has been a boon in many instances, it is a major culprit in reducing work rate and efficiency at the work place as employees spend work hours scrolling through their feeds rather than completing their tasks. A solution to this problem is seen in the use of internal social networks my some companies. Let us see how this works.

The way in which social networks have revitalized how people communicate with one another, it would be fruitful to use internal social networks to promote communication and participation at the workplace. From our own experience, we can say that social networks have opened new channels of communication which have facilitated interaction. Hence, it would be only logical to use internal social networks to promote employee engagement, transparency and build a culture of inclusivity by allowing everyone to place their opinions.

Using social networks internally enhances security of communication and exchanges as only those people with requisite permissions and clearances are able to access the network. Internal social networks also provide a platform for rapid and instant information sharing among employees, across multiple locations anywhere in the world.

Such internal networks also enable creation of discussion groups by employees of respective teams in the company across the globe such as sales team, marketing team, design team etc. They can share their views and participate openly.

Internal social networks can help with circulation of important information in the company. Instead of printing memos or circulars, such information can be directly shared in the internal social network.

Therefore, one can conclude that using social medias internally enables companies to enhance efficiency, foster communication and participation, bring more transparency in decision making, disseminate information instantly and creates an inclusive work culture.

Thus, by using the right tools and setting the right rules and boundaries, companies can use social networks for their benefit.