Are your emojis breaking workplace rules?

Updated July 17, 2025, 11:44 a.m. | By Stacey & J Sbu

Companies in South Africa are being urged to address the use of emojis in the workplace due to potential misinterpretations.

Companies in South Africa are being advised to no longer overlook the use of emojis in workplace communication.

IOL reported on a webinar presented by Dr. Zakeera Docrat and legal firm Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr, businesses should proactively create policies around emoji use due to potential misinterpretations.

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Emojis, which are increasingly critical in workplace communication, can convey different meanings depending on context and sequence. For instance, a set of eyes could be seen as "pervy eyes", a hug emoji as warmth, and a yellow emoji with a tongue out could mean want, desire, or "delicious".

Updating social media policies is vital as emojis are a growing form of communication in the workplace. Employees must consider their company's policies on language and professionalism, which should include guidelines on emoji use in codes of conduct and handbooks.

Employers are encouraged to engage employees in discussions about emoji use rather than making unilateral decisions, as interpretations of emojis can vary by workplace and individual. Parameters on professionalism in client communication are also necessary. Employees are also advised to be mindful of what they repost and reshare, as adding emojis like a heart can communicate a message that could be revisited by external parties.

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The webinar highlighted that companies should review their existing policies to cater for emoji use in workplace communication. Dr. Docrat emphasised the importance of consulting with employees when creating these policies because what one person considers problematic, others might find effective for communication.

Different industries may communicate differently regarding emoji use. Dr. Docrat cautioned against simply using an emoji dictionary or information from websites like Emojipedia to guide employees. Instead, companies could seek assistance from forensic linguists to advise on emoji use policies.

Dr. Docrat also suggested that certain policies could include provisions to limit or avoid emoji use in specific workplace communications, like WhatsApp groups, to minimise potential issues. If unsure about using an emoji, it's advisable not to use it. The choice of emojis should be careful, as emojis bring words to life and can be used positively or negatively.

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