In the age of social media, where sharing your thoughts about life, the universe, and your job can lead to instant likes or harsh consequences, the lines between expressing opinions and getting axed are blurred. The recent saga of a Tesla manager who lost their job after a LinkedIn post criticizing Elon Musk is a wake-up call for every worker out there.

Employees nowadays have a few protective laws on their side, but let’s be real, what those protections cover is as clear as California fog. While the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) gives workers the right to engage in discussions about work conditions, it’s a minefield out there for those considering a social media rant. If you think your Twitter thread about your boss’s questionable leadership will be your version of a Glorious Revolution, think again.

According to Jeffrey Hirsch, a labor law professor who might have seen it all at this point, employers have a huge amount of discretion when it comes to firing someone. In simple terms? They can pretty much let you go for saying anything remotely critical online. And if you’re an at-will employee, which is most of you, that means they can give you the boot for literally anything.

That said, if you’ve joined the ranks of workplace warriors discussing conditions that affect your coworkers, you might have a leg to stand on. Posts that gather a rallying cry, think likes, shares, or comments from colleagues, can potentially offer some protection. But if you’re simply venting frustrations like “my employer stinks,” you might want to hit the delete button real quick.

And let’s not forget public sector workers; if you’re a firefighter or teacher, your First Amendment rights can protect you, provided your comments are off-duty and on matters of public concern. Even that, however, isn’t a get-out-of-jail-free card.

Companies can’t outright ban you from criticizing them online, but say something defamatory and watch your job vanish faster than your sanity during a Bay Area traffic jam. Ultimately, it’s a balancing act, knowing where the line is drawn and how much you can say while keeping your job.

Here’s a pearl of wisdom: If you think your posts have landed you in hot water, consult the National Labor Relations Board and see if you have a case. Remember, knowledge is power…and apparently, also a means of keeping your paycheck.

As the wise say, “the pen is mightier than the sword,” but sometimes that pen might also get you a pink slip. Happy posting!

Stay safe out there on social media, it’s not just your feed, it’s your livelihood.