Firms block access to FaceBook

Concerned about worker distractions, nearly one in four companies are now blocking employee access to social networking websites like Facebook and MySpace, according to a new survey of human resources professionals. Challenger, Gray & Christmas--a consulting firm that conducted the survey--said the use of the social networking sites has grown during work hours and is worrying some employers who view the communication tool of the new generation as a "productivity killer."

The survey found that 23 percent of companies polled block access to these sites entirely. Yet some companies have a totally different perspective, with 8 percent saying they encouraged employees to use social networking sites, and 10 percent viewing them as invaluable marketing, networking and sales tools. At the same time, the majority of firms--59 percent--have no formal policy at all.

To learn more about social networking:
- check out this NetworkWorld article