WhatsApp is a popular messaging app that has become a staple in our personal lives. However, it has also become increasingly popular in the workplace. Many companies are now using WhatsApp as a communication tool to keep their employees connected and informed. In this blog, we will explore the benefits and drawbacks of using WhatsApp at work.
Benefits of using WhatsApp at work:
- Instant communication: WhatsApp allows for instant messaging, which means that employees can communicate with each other in real-time. This can be especially useful in situations where quick decisions need to be made.
- Group chats: WhatsApp allows for group chats, which means that teams can communicate with each other in a single chat. This can be useful for project management, as it allows for easy collaboration and sharing of ideas.
- Cost-effective: WhatsApp is a free app, which means that companies can save money on communication costs. This can be especially useful for small businesses that may not have the budget for expensive communication tools.
- Easy to use: WhatsApp is easy to use and does not require any special training. This means that employees can start using it right away without any additional training.
Drawbacks of using WhatsApp at work:
- Security concerns: WhatsApp is not a secure platform, which means that sensitive information could be at risk of being hacked or leaked. This can be a major concern for companies that deal with sensitive information.
- Distractions: WhatsApp can be a major distraction for employees, especially if they are constantly receiving notifications, including notification for personal messages This can lead to a decrease in productivity and can be a major issue for companies.
- Lack of professionalism: WhatsApp is a casual messaging app, which means that it may not be appropriate for all types of communication. This can be a major concern for companies that need to maintain a professional image.
- Cyberbully: WhatsApp can be used as a platform for cyberbullying and harassment, which can have serious consequences for the victim’s mental health and well-being. Bullying is a serious issue in the workplace and can lead to legal action. The Equality Act 2010 makes it illegal to discrimination against someone based on their age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race and religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation. This includes bullying or harassment on any of these protected characteristics.
- Legal issues: WhatsApp messages may not be admissible in court, which means that companies may not be able to use them as evidence in legal proceedings. In a recent case before the High Court, the Judge reminded employers that, where an employee saves private messages to work equipment, this does not necessarily amount to the employee waiving the privacy of these messages.
Mitigating Risks:
- Establish clear guidelines: Establish clear guidelines for the use of WhatsApp in the workplace. This should include guidelines for respectful behaviour and language, as well as procedures for reporting bullying or harassment.
- Provide training: Provide training for employees on the appropriate use of WhatsApp in the workplace. This can include training on respectful communication and how to report inappropriate behaviour.
- Monitor usage: Monitor the usage of WhatsApp in the workplace to ensure that it is being used appropriately. This can include monitoring group chats and individual messages.
- Encourage open communication: Encourage open communication between employees to create a safe and inclusive environment. This can include creating a forum for discussion or providing a confidential reporting system.
- Seek outside resources: Seek outside resources, such as legal experts or HR consultants, to help manage conflicts and ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
In conclusion, using WhatsApp at work can be beneficial for companies that need to communicate quickly and cost-effectively. However, it is important to consider the drawbacks and potential risks before implementing it as a communication tool. Companies should also establish clear guidelines and policies for the use of WhatsApp to ensure that it is used appropriately and professionally as mitigating risks associated with WhatsApp can lead to a more respectful and inclusive workplace culture.
If you would like to speak to someone in our Employment Team about employment issues in your workplace, then please call us on 0345 209 4700.
Lauren Mills, Senior Associate, Employment Team