Social networking has long been used for entertainment purposes. Although, just now does it get more exposure, and usually more bad than good, businesses need to realize that blocking one’s access to it will not solve anything. Amazingly, some companies support the idea of social networking between employees whereas others see it as threat. Companies believe that by blocking access to a website such as Facebook or MySpace, employees would use their time more productively for the company. Sounds good, but this idea creates more problems than it solves. Employees would feel like they’re being watched and restricted. Many employees would find other ways to visit the website, which would usually take up more time then a quick visit which would otherwise happen.
Many university professors are already using Facebook to give out homework and discuss class materials. This facilitates the students’ ease of information sharing. Email is one dimensional meaning that it’s a one way communication between the receiver and sender. Many times, a question may be asked several times, which ultimately consumes the professors’ time obliging him/her to respond with short and sometimes unhelpful messages. Using Facebook, students could share and read other people’s questions, allowing for an open discussion and furthermore it can result in self-help.
Another reason companies don’t allow social networking is information sharing, where employers are afraid that employees would divulge company secrets. This reason, in my opinion is ridiculous, as anybody can see who divulged that information, and the employee would take the risk of being quickly unemployed. Would anyone risk their job over a post, I highly doubt it. Executives could follow the messages and see if inappropriate materials are posted and if there are, then they could simply erase them. Implementing a “Internet Use Policy” could resolve and educate employees on what is acceptable and what is not. A simple yet effective solution to this problem.
Many university professors are already using Facebook to give out homework and discuss class materials. This facilitates the students’ ease of information sharing. Email is one dimensional meaning that it’s a one way communication between the receiver and sender. Many times, a question may be asked several times, which ultimately consumes the professors’ time obliging him/her to respond with short and sometimes unhelpful messages. Using Facebook, students could share and read other people’s questions, allowing for an open discussion and furthermore it can result in self-help.
Another reason companies don’t allow social networking is information sharing, where employers are afraid that employees would divulge company secrets. This reason, in my opinion is ridiculous, as anybody can see who divulged that information, and the employee would take the risk of being quickly unemployed. Would anyone risk their job over a post, I highly doubt it. Executives could follow the messages and see if inappropriate materials are posted and if there are, then they could simply erase them. Implementing a “Internet Use Policy” could resolve and educate employees on what is acceptable and what is not. A simple yet effective solution to this problem.
