A social media policy protects confidential business information and makes clear who can speak for the company online. In the US, it must also leave room for employees to talk about pay and working conditions, which federal labor law protects.
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Important: please read
This template is a free starting point, not legal advice. MadyHR.ai is not a law firm and cannot give legal advice. Employment law is different in every state, and some cities have their own rules. Laws also change. Before you use this template, check it against the laws where your employees work, and speak to an employment attorney or your state labor department if you are unsure. You use this template at your own risk, and MadyHR.ai accepts no responsibility for how it is used. Links to official government websites are given for information only; MadyHR.ai is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency.
When to use this template
Any business with an online presence
Employees post about work
Setting rules for official company accounts
Tips before you use it
Do not ban employees from criticizing the company or discussing pay, hours or working conditions online — that is generally protected by the National Labor Relations Act.
Focus the rules on real risks: confidential data, harassment, and speaking on the company's behalf. NLRB standards on workplace rules change often, so have your final wording reviewed.
Some states limit employers from asking for employees' personal social media passwords.
Rules in your state may differ. Federal law sets the minimum. Your state — and sometimes your city or county — may add extra rules on this topic. Check with your state labor department before you use this template.
Find your state labor office (U.S. Department of Labor)
Template preview
Replace everything in [brackets] and delete the notes for employers before you use it. The Word download contains the full template.
[Company Name]
Social Media Policy
Personal accounts
Make clear that your views are your own and not those of [Company Name] when you mention your work.
Do not share confidential business information, trade secrets or customer personal data.
Do not post content that harasses, threatens or discriminates against co-workers, customers or others.
Use of personal social media during working time should not interfere with your work.
Official company accounts
Only employees authorized by [Manager Name or Title] may post on behalf of [Company Name]. Passwords for company accounts belong to the company and must be handed over when your role changes.
What this policy does not do
We will never ask for your personal social media passwords. Nothing in this policy is intended to restrict employees' rights under Section 7 of the National Labor Relations Act, including the right to discuss wages, hours and other terms and conditions of employment with each other or with others.
This policy is not a contract of employment and does not change the at-will nature of employment with [Company Name]. [Company Name] may change this policy at any time, and will apply it in line with federal, state and local law.
I have received and read this policy, and I understand it.
Can I fire an employee for complaining about work on social media?
It depends. The National Labor Relations Board treats many posts about pay or working conditions, especially ones shared with or on behalf of co-workers, as protected concerted activity. Get advice before acting.
Can I ask employees for their social media passwords?
Many states prohibit employers from requesting personal social media account passwords. Do not request them.
Official sources
Each source below is an official U.S. government website. Check them for the latest rules.
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