What’s Your Site? Social Media in the Hiring Process
Workplace Application: Learn the legal implications of using social media sites as part of your recruiting process, as well as the potential risks associated with their use with respect to current employees.
The digital age provides access to a great deal of information about employees as well as applicants. Employers are now using social networking websites, such as Facebook and Twitter, to aid in the employment process. While the information may be beneficial, accessing an employee's or applicant's web page does not come without risk. This session will examine the risks of using these sites in light of significant legal changes, as well as the potential exposure to liability under federal and state discrimination laws, invasion of privacy laws and the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Michael S. Cohen, J.D.
Michael S. Cohen is a partner in Duane Morris’ Employment, Labor, Benefits and Immigration Practice Group. Michael concentrates his practice in the areas of employment law training and counseling. He has trained and counseled employers throughout the country on subjects including harassment prevention; diversity, equity and inclusion; combatting implicit bias; performance management; discipline and discharge; hiring and recruiting practices; performance evaluations; FMLA, ADA and FLSA compliance; leave of absence policies; LGBTQ+ issues in the workplace; substance abuse testing; workplace violence; records retention; conducting background checks; and more. Michael also has conducted investigations into claims of harassment and discrimination and has drafted employee handbooks, employment agreements, non-compete agreements and post-termination agreements. Michael regularly conducts in excess of 200 trainings each year. He has represented clients throughout the country in EEO and other administrative proceedings.
Michael has been cited as a national authority on employment issues by The New York Times, The Associated Press, USA Today, MSNBC.com, HR Magazine, SHRM On-Line, Employment Law 360, Inside Counsel Magazine, as well as many other publications. Michael serves as an Advisory Board Member of GenHERation and as a Board Member of Serve, Inc. Michael is a 1997 magna cum laude graduate of Temple University Beasley School of Law and a cum laude graduate of the University of Pennsylvania.