Can Using LinkedIn Cost You a Lawsuit

Can Using LinkedIn Cost You a Lawsuit According to Human Resource Executive Online, Brelyn Hammernik, a technical recruiter, was recently sued by her former company, TEKsystems, an IT staffing firm,   after she sent messages to members of her LinkedIn network members who also happened to be current employees of TEKsystems. What was the problem? Her former company claims that she had a non-compete agreement that stated she cannot contact former colleagues and clients.This lawsuit is the first of its kind, and it is expected to create precedent regarding social networking and non-compete agreements.Here are a few other ways LinkedIn can place users on shaky ground.Account OwnershipWhen you create an account on LinkedIn, link it to a personal email address rather than a company email. If the account is linked to a company address, the company may claim that the contacts belong to them and not allow you to have access to your account if you leave the employer.EndorsementsFor decades, many companies have had a clear policy t hat prohibits employees from giving personal references for people they have worked with at that company. When employers check references on a potential hire, they are often rerouted to the companys HR department where very limited information such as job titles and dates of employment are shared. With the advent of new social media policies, I think its just a matter of time before companies formalize their policies around giving LinkedIn recommendations because they dont want to be saddled with the potential liability these recommendations can create.Profile InformationThinking of altering job titles on your LinkedIn profile or embellishing the truth? Dont do it. This information can be easily found online and if your representation of yourself or the professional impact you had on the company is debatable, your employer could call you on it.Slideshare PresentationsPresentations of your work can be created on LinkedIn to add some flair and make your profile more three dimensional. But be careful that whatever you are sharing isnt considered proprietary by a current or former employer.LinkedIn is a fantastic social media platform and a boon to job seekers. The benefits certainly outweighs the risks, but it is important to use the tool intelligently and not step on any legal landmines along the way.