Work Internet: Should It Be Utilized For Personal Needs?
Here are some guidelines to follow when it comes to doing personal tasks on the internet while at work:
Know the Policy - Many companies have strict policies on Internet usage. You should take some time to inquire as to whether your company has a written policy; however, many companies without a written policy still discourage personal internet usage.
Even without a company policy you should keep your internet use to a minimum. If your employer continuously finds you surfing the internet he or she is bound to assume you do not have enough work to do. You may leave your boss wondering if your salary is justified. Many companies allow a little personal time on the internet. However you should keep it to a minimum as you are getting paid to complete a job and not check your personal emails.
In Addition to personal Internet use, many companies also have policies regarding the forwarding of off-colored jokes through work emails and to co-workers. Doing this could break your companies sexual harassment policies. Therefore, even if you determine that your company does not have a strict Internet policy, you still still not be using it inappropriately at work.
We all know when you surf the web you leave an imprint of the places you visited. Additionally, many companies use software to track their employees internet usage. The same thing goes for personal emails that you send from your work computer. You should assume that any email being sent from your work computer may end up in front of someone you did not intend to see it so practice caution when sending your emails. It is important to remember that you can be putting your job at risk by doing a little online shopping or sending the off-colored joke to your list of friends.
Keep in mind that just because you have not been advised that you are being monitored while on the computer does not mean that you are not being monitored.
