Should you have your boss on social media?

There's no easy answer, but we're breaking it down for you.

By Sakshi Deshmukh

30 April, 2024

Should you have your boss on social media?

Social media has become an integral part of our lives. From sharing adorable puppy photos to capturing hilarious moments with our niece tasting ice cream for the first time or even flaunting a new outfit, social media platforms help us connect with our friends, family, and colleagues alike. However, one downside of the 'social media era' is the blurring of boundaries between your personal and professional lives. For example, should you have your boss follow you on social media? Tricky question, isn't it?

It might be quite normal for some people. After all, social media gives us a peek into others' lives, interests, and personalities outside the office. But for others, the idea of their boss having access to their personal lives and online activities might feel like a violation of boundaries, raising concerns about privacy and the potential for misunderstandings or judgements.

So, should you accept that friend request from your boss or politely decline? There is no one-size-fits-all answer, but here are some things you can consider.

Ask yourself: What purpose is social media serving you?

Firstly, consider why you use social media. Is it primarily for networking, staying connected with friends and family, sharing personal moments, or promoting your work? Or is it a combination of all of these? Once you identify your main motivations, you can decide whether or not you want your boss to be part of your social media circle.

If your social media presence is mainly professional—aimed at networking and promoting your work—then having your boss as a connection might be beneficial. It can demonstrate transparency and professionalism and even help build your professional relationship.

But if your social media is more of a personal sanctuary, where you share intimate details of your life, thoughts, and experiences, you might prefer to keep your boss out of this. Maintaining boundaries between your personal and professional lives is important for most people, and having your boss on your personal social media might blur those lines.

It depends on the nature of your workplace

Whether or not you should have your supervisor on your social media depends on the atmosphere they have created at work. Some managers encourage employees to have balanced lives and accept that life is more than just work. And they may strongly advocate social media relationships as a way to stay connected outside of the office.

However, not all managers might share this perspective. Some believe that separating your personal and working lives fosters a more professional atmosphere. These choices are ultimately shaped by the diversity of views among individuals. Consequently, your boss's stance on social media integration can help you navigate professional relationships and provide an understanding of the dynamics at work.

Relationships you share with your boss

Another important element to consider is the nature of your relationship with your boss. Are your discussions exclusively professional? Or is there room for personal information? If your relationship goes beyond work, and if you're both comfortable trading tales or discussing personal hobbies, interacting on social media may feel more natural. This type of relationship frequently suggests a level of trust and camaraderie that might foster a social media connection. However, if your discussions are mostly focused on work-related themes and you maintain a formal demeanour, it may be prudent to respect those limits and avoid adding your boss on social media.

Feature image credits: Pexels

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