The Leadership Required
Leaders can model the way by setting up and using intranet wikis or blogs that are only
visible and accessible to the organization itself. These procedures, along with the previous
controls mentioned, can allow companies or organizations to control what is posted and to
whom. This will encourage the hearts of employees to utilize social media for sensitive
information and inspire a shared vision throughout the organization.
SUMMARY
In summary, the use of new social learning systems is permeating organizations at an
unprecedented rate. With Generation’s Y and Z in line to run organization in the near future, it is
more advantageous for leaders to embrace this opportunity than avoid it. Training and
discussions on the proper use of social media and individual responsibility and accountability is
essential for organizations to embrace the learning power of social media. Leaders can use
Kouzes and Posner’s Five Practices of Exemplary Leadership to help transform their
organizations into social media-savvy organizations that promote timely and up-to-date
information-sharing and learning; thus creating a future-oriented organization. Bingham and
Connor (2010) state this new approach to social learning transcends social media, training, and
workplace learning practices of the past. It offers more information sources, more dissemination
points, and an open approach to a wide network of communicators and collaborators who can
help work flow better (Bingham & Connor, 2010).