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How do you know? Answer: Parking Lot Test.

How do you know when you are posting something on your blog that would be considered acceptable with your employer or that you are posting something that you really shouldn’t be. Well, first off, while I’ve been an avid blog reader for quite some time, I’ve only been blogging for a short time. However, for the fact that I’ve gotten a question about it twice in the last week since starting this blog, it is something that I’ve been thinking about. And in this world of connectedness, it is something that all bloggers that have corporate responsibilities have to keep top-of-mind.

Of course, you should always adhere to your corporate blogging policy, such as IBM’s. And with the latest O’Reilly’s blogger code of conduct being the topic du jour, there is even more to consider. However, my answer is simple: apply the parking lot test. What? Yes, if you need to ask whether you should be blogging about something, ask yourself whether you would feel comfortable saying it out in the parking lot in front of strangers.

It is a simple rule and it fits quite well. If you would not feel comfortable saying something out in the open in front of others (i.e. out in the parking lot), you shouldn’t feel comfortable putting it out on the web. The web is an incredible place to disseminate information but it is also a place that you can cause reputation damage to yourself, others and your company if you don’t think twice before blogging sensitive information. Global Neighbourhoods, formerly “Naked Conversations”, has a whole category dedicated to the topic of “corporate blogging” for those who are interested.

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    I kinda agree~ i have had some post drafts that after some thought i decided not to post. We however are fortunate with our Factiva culture to work for a company that supports are blogging habits (let's hope it continues with DJ).


    i would however disagree if you are in a parking lot with other bloggers and can't 'out' it out in the parking lot because you want to be the first to blog about it!!

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    It is a complex topic and it is difficult to do it justice in just one post. There are whole books and blogs dedicated to the topic as you know. The 'parking lot test' certainly does not replace a corporate blogging policy and it is not the only personal rule I adhere to whether it be with regard to blogging or public conversation. Suffice it to say, there is a lot to be said for common sense on what to disclose and that is essence of the 'parking lot test'.


    I haven't had the opportunity to be in a parking lot with other bloggers as of yet. :) See you tomorrow in SF.

 

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