Employers may get less resistance when analyzing how workers use company communication tools
Employees generally don’t mind being monitored to help determine ways to improve operational efficiency — but they feel some types of information are more acceptable to track than others, according to a new survey involving global workers and HR leaders.
Most employees, for example, think it’s reasonable for their employer to examine workplace-related tasks and phone use and work email accounts.
However, 72 percent of employees feel an employer monitoring private social media accounts would be unacceptable. More than half believe tracking physical movements and personal interactions in the workplace is objectionable.
The way employee information is used can be another concern.
The majority of HR leaders — 85 percent — have set privacy and security guidelines that involve protecting personal information in the workplace, including what data is gathered and how it’s stored. Fifteen percent, though, have no rules in place regarding monitoring employees.
Eighty percent of organizations are using data they gather with employee records to measure performance. Some are also using employee records and information to gauge retention, reduce turnover, enhance engagement and improve recruitment.
Fewer — 40 percent — are using employee data to enhance company culture.
For more information about the other HR Metrics & Analytics Summit survey findings, view this information.