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80% get social on work time

06/06/2008

A new study has revealed 80 per cent of younger employees visit social networking sites ate work.

The 18-25 year old age group was found to be the worst offenders - 63 per cent download music and 58 per cent watch video site, YouTube.

Network solutions provider, Telindus, conducted the research, which concluded a workplace ban would be counterproductive.

Managing director, Mark Hutchinson, recommended employers "appreciate that the younger generation are now using communication tools more effectively and banning the internet for personal use will simply drive it underground," ITPro reported.

His research found younger workers (39 per cent) would consider leaving a company if it prohibited access, but those aged 25-65 were less bothered about an internet restriction.

He told ITPro: "This draconian approach will result in unhappy staff as they won't feel trusted and resentment towards the management team will develop."

The Trades Union Congress has advised bosses to allow limited access provided it was within break times and would not compromise the employer's reputation.

 

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