Social Networking Without Tears

A recent survey conducted by Robert Half Technology found that many businesses ban sites such as Facebook and Twitter in the workplace. Seen as a distraction by some, these sites have potential value to IT employees who use them appropriately.

Says Dave Willmer, executive director of Robert Half Technology, "These sites can be leveraged as effective business tools, which may be why about one in five companies allows their use for work-related purposes."

The key is exercising good judgment, no matter which computer an employee uses to update their profiles, says Wilmer: "Professionals should let common sense prevail when using Facebook and similar sites -- even outside of business hours. Regrettable posts can be a career liability."