Gone are the days when social media was just a tool for communication. Now, a lot of things go down in that space. It's like the world is watching people closely through their screens. It’s not strange anymore to hear that someone made a comment online, and the next thing you know, “He’s been arrested”or “She’s been fired.” It used to be celebrities getting dragged for saying the wrong thing, but now, even a random person’s post can go viral and cost them their job or a schooling opportunity, apparently.
First off, there’s this growing temptation to respond to everything we see online. We all have opinions, no doubt, but not every opinion needs to be aired. Social media gives people this boldness to just type whatever comes to their mind without context, caution, or consideration. People forget that the internet never forgets. A simple comment made years ago can be fished out, brought back to the spotlight, and oops, someone is in trouble.
The major issue is, where do we draw the line? Should what someone says on their personal social media account be enough reason for them to lose their job or get expelled from school? Personally, I believe that unless a person's online post directly affects the reputation of their workplace or school, or breaks clearly defined policies, it shouldn’t automatically be grounds for dismissal. Everyone has a right to their opinion, especially if it doesn’t threaten or harm anyone else.
That said, freedom of speech doesn’t mean freedom from consequences. A lot of people tend to forget this. You can’t be working with a brand and then go online to share degrading memes or bash a certain group of people, and expect there to be no reactions. Even if you didn’t mention your company, you’re still representing yourself, and indirectly, the institution you belong to. You might say it was just a joke, but online, jokes are screenshots waiting to go viral.
Let’s also be honest, some people are just plain rude on social media. They don’t care who they offend or how their words come across. They type whatever they like and hide behind the idea that “this is my page” or “I’m just being real.” But realness without respect is recklessness. And in a professional world, recklessness has consequences.
It’s important to remember that many institutions also have a strong presence online. They watch, observe, and protect their image. They’re constantly on the lookout for anything that could harm their brand. So, when a worker or student steps out of line publicly, even without wearing the institution’s name tag, they may be seen as a liability.
Still, I hold my ground, unless someone is posting things that clearly go against their institution’s values, or are inciting harm, hate, or false narratives, firing them feels like an extreme reaction. There should be room for dialogue, for correction, and for learning. Because let’s be honest, sometimes, people just make mistakes or speak out of ignorance.
Imagine dragging someone online today, and tomorrow, that same person walks into your office as a potential client. That would be awkward. Or worse, imagine being disrespectful online and finding out the person you disrespected is your new boss. Life is funny like that. So yes, moderation and self-awareness are key. How you want people to perceive you in person should also reflect how you carry yourself online.You can’t claim to be a professional, then post insensitive jokes about your field because you’re trying to go viral.
In the end, social media can be a platform for growth or a weapon of destruction, it all depends on how you use it. Institutions are watching, the public is watching, and your future self might have to live with what you post today.
