Which guideline for online communication is least likely to protect you and your employer?

Identifying yourself as a company employee while adding "my opinion only" may imply that your comments do not reflect the views of your employer, but this disclaimer may not fully protect you in situations where your comments could still be viewed as damaging or inappropriate. Employers are often concerned about the online behavior of their employees because it can impact the company's reputation. Simply adding a disclaimer doesn't negate the potential consequences of sharing personal opinions that may contradict company values or lead to misunderstandings about the company's stance.

In contrast, using professional language at all times helps maintain a respectful and constructive dialogue, while avoiding discussions of work-related issues online minimizes the risk of leaking sensitive information. Keeping personal and professional accounts separate also helps to delineate your professional image from personal activities, which can protect both you and your employer from potential conflicts of interest or misinterpretations. These practices provide clear boundaries that safeguard your professional persona and employer’s interests, unlike the more ambiguous approach of merely stating a personal opinion.