The Martha and Spencer Love School of Business (LSB), Beta Alpha Psi, Beta Gamma Sigma and the LSB PRME initiative co-sponsored a panel discussion titled “Workplace Ethics: Impact and Risks of Social Networking.”
The panel was held on April 2 in LaRose Digital Theatre, and was moderated by Mary Gowan, professor of management.
Panelists included:
- Sam Burke ’89, partner, National Independence Office, PricewaterhouseCoopers, NJ
- Patricia Mulvaney, partner, Ethics and Regulatory Compliance, PricewaterhouseCoopers, NJ
- Todd Topolka, audit senior associate, PricewaterhouseCoopers, NC
- Sam Upton ’12, accounting major, vice president of Beta Gamma Sigma, president of Beta Alpha Psi
The panel covered the benefits, impacts and risks of social networking and the workplace. Benefits include the ability to stay connected with an easy flow of information, making collaboration easier.
The panel cautioned that social networking could put client confidentiality and relationships at risk. Professionals must be careful not to inadvertently share confidential client information or make personal comments about their work life. They must be conscious of the reputational impact their social networking has on their individual professional life and their company.
Professionals should also be aware of generational gaps created by technology and social media. While social media is second nature to younger generations, senior-level workers lack familiarity with social media. Ongoing discussions should take place to address awareness, expectations and risks of social networking and technology advances.
In order to maintain relationships, audience members were advised that face-to-face interactions are still necessary, even if social media might be more convenient. It is crucial to know the difference between what topics need to be discussed in person and what can be done through phone, text, email or social media.
By Rachel Vierling ’12