Rui Nunes's thoughts and ideas

The word all over the world speaks of restriction to social networks from work, as instant messaging, as online videos, etc.. There's any reason for all this uproar? Yes, definitely. Let's be direct: the purpose of any business is to be productive and in short, profitable. Having constant distractions that lead to your collaborators interrupt their thoughts or working hours with these forms of personal online communication is cause for con cern and should be set up rules and restrictions for this type of activities. Worse yet, it may be passed sensitive information about a company or information that may harm your enterprise to the social network.

However, there is no reason to extremes as it can turn against the company. It all depends on how that access is made and the type of information that is passed. Above all you must empower your employees as the only responsible for the content and the comments that they make online about your projects. Each employee should know their goals and work to achieve and when possible, overcome them.

With that in mind, we must also understand these days, we have to accomplish the compromise between the pleasure of working and small leisure moments. No one can work with the same concentration and productivity through 8 hours a day without some leisure moments, distinct from each other. Some opt for a cup of coffee, a conversation on the phone, a cigarette in the corridor and some people choose to write their blog or comment on the status of their friends in social networks. Nor should we forget that before social networks existed, the email was a communication tool, and still endures today, where they exchange messages, chain letters, etc.. The risk existed. It just was not seen at the same time by hundreds or thousands of people.

But instead of speaking of the inevitability, let's consider the benefits. Yes, it exists. If we work the good atmosphere of the team as we satisfy their needs, if there is motivation, it will be reflected in their posts. This will lead free of charge beneficial feedback and sincere info spread worldwide. Obviously it's highly helpful.

If we work the kind of information that is passed, it creates a cluster of communication based on personal and professional relationships that only benefit the objectives of the company. Take the initiative and talk openly with your team. Mention your founded fear and show that they will be held responsible directly if problems at that level occur. If the level of productivity decreases or sensitive information are made public, in any situation it will be taken measures to reprehend and punish the fault.

Demonstrate that it is in favor of all members and I do not get tired to say: Assume RESPONSIBILITY for their actions. Studies show that productivity may even be enhanced, including the area of business contacts or partnerships, social networks allow you to "earn" access to certain people who would otherwise be nearly impossible to achieve. When it is done with discernment can be a very useful tool. Not overlook.