Web Surfing More Accepted in Creative Fields

August 21, 2008 (PLANSPONSOR.com) - Whether workers need to worry about time spent on the Internet at the office for non work-related purposes could depend on what field they're in.

A new survey by The Creative Group found that more than half (57%) of advertising and marketing executives surveyed said it is OK for employees to visit non work-related Web sites during business hours. When asked the maximum amount of time that should be permissible each day, the mean response was 32 minutes, according to a press release.

Forty-one percent of executives said it would not be permissible for employees to surf non work-related Web sites during business hours.

“In the creative field, surfing non-work sites may be considered part of the job because it allows professionals to keep up with trends and seek new sources of inspiration,” said Megan Slabinski, executive director of The Creative Group, in the press release. “Also, many employers recognize that making appointments and attending to personal tasks online might actually improve productivity, since professionals can quickly take care of needs while in the office instead of stepping out.”

A survey earlier this year by the American Management Association found 30% of employers have let employees go for Internet misuse (See Employers on the Electronic Prowl ).

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