In recent weeks, several high-profile incidents have highlighted the risk employees face when engaging in certain speech or activity outside of work. For instance, well over a hundred employees were disciplined or fired nationwide relative to statements following the assassination of Charlie Kirk (including a few high-profile names). Meanwhile, a Brewers’ fan lost her job and board role after she made a racially charged remark when the Brewers hosted the Dodgers in the NLCS. Even the comparatively less inflammatory Detroit Tigers broadcaster’s frustrated hot-mic comment triggered a mix of amusement and scrutiny.
Business Takeaway: Everyone’s seemingly on edge these days, and employees should recognize that (1) their conduct, in any setting or capacity, may reflect on the organization—particularly with respect to politically sensitive issues; and (2) everything is, in one way, shape or form, “on the record.” Businesses need not be afraid of their own shadow should they cut ties in such circumstances; however, now is the time to revisit your existing policies that speak to employee conduct and statements outside of the workplace. While it may not be your place to police behavior outside the workplace, the consequences of such conduct can be huge. Feel free to call us should you wish to review your existing policies and protocols, or explore creating or updating them.