#Japan #Tokyo #RCIJ #Smiley Kikuchi #Social Media Governance

The Rising Risks of Employee Social Media Posts

In today’s digital age, the impact of social media is profound and far-reaching. The organizations we work for often face the threat of reputational damage stemming from the personal online activities of their employees. On June 11, 2025, the Risk Communication Institute of Japan (RCIJ) will hold a free online webinar titled "The Structure of Employee Social Media Posts as Corporate Risks and How to Prepare for Them." Guest speaker Smiley Kikuchi, who has been a victim of internet defamation, will explore the responsibilities associated with communication that affects both individuals and organizations.

The Significance of the Discussion

Recent data reveals alarming trends in how employees' social media activities can escalate into corporate crises. According to an RCIJ survey conducted in May 2025, a staggering 73.8% of respondents noted that they perceived a decline in their impression of companies tied to negative social media posts by employees. The Ministry of Justice's report published in March 2025 indicated that online human rights violations constituted nearly 19% (1,707 cases) of reported incidents, showcasing the critical nature of this issue.

As organizations navigate a rapidly changing communication landscape, understanding these risks becomes essential. Many companies are now confronted with significant challenges that arise when media coverage shines an unfavorable light due to employee actions on social platforms. This issue raises questions about how organizations can protect themselves and maintain their reputations in the face of adversity.

Webinar Details

This upcoming webinar, scheduled for Wednesday, June 11, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM JST, will be hosted on Zoom. Attendance is free and limited to the first 50 registrants. The session will be guided by RCIJ director Naoto Kui, aimed at individuals and teams keen to address the following:

• - Unclear social media usage guidelines for employees and a desire for appropriate defenses.
• - Uncertainty over internal processes and accountability when crises, such as defamation or brand damage, arise.
• - A need to assess how personal online content influences corporate branding.
• - An opportunity to revisit best practices for public apologies and information disclosure during corporate scandals.

Special Guest: Smiley Kikuchi

Smiley Kikuchi is a renowned talent and comedian who has bravely shared his experience of being a victim of online defamation since the late 1990s. He became embroiled in a harrowing case of mistaken identity linked to the notorious 'Girls High School Concrete Murder Case,' leading to widespread false allegations against him. Kikuchi endured threats and harassment, which ultimately contributed to significant police action against internet defamation in Japan. Through his book, "Suddenly, I Was Accused of Murder," and his ongoing advocacy, he raises awareness about online harassment and the need for robust defenses in the digital space.

About RCIJ

The Risk Communication Institute of Japan (RCIJ), founded on July 6, 2020, is the only organization in Japan specializing in risk management within communication strategy. RCIJ offers expert training and comprehensive programs, drawing on the insights of industry leaders in risk and crisis management communication. More information about RCIJ and their initiatives can be found on their official website RCIJ and Twitter account @rcijofficial.

Conclusion

As the responsibility for addressing misunderstandings and corporate reputations in the digital age grows, organizations must seek out strategies and training to navigate these complexities. RCIJ’s upcoming webinar presents an invaluable opportunity for businesses to equip themselves against social media-related risks, ensuring both their brand integrity and employee welfare are safeguarded. Whether you are a small business or a large corporation, understanding the implications of social media usage is no longer a luxury but a necessity.