A case for embracing social networking in the office … Really

With a slew of firms running into problems because of staffers’ social networking habits, it’s no wonder some workplaces are banning these sites altogether. Before you go that route, consider these reasons why you should do the opposite.

Let’s face it, social networks are going to be here for a while. Used correctly, sites like Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter can be valuable business tools.

Take Dell, for example. The company reported a $3 million boost to its bottom line less than a year after it opened a Twitter account — an increase the company directly attributed to the social networking site.

In addition to creating revenue, social networks offer a ton of in-house benefits.

Example: Education. Facebook offers networking groups for just about any niche you can think of. By encouraging Finance staffers to link up with other pros in their field, they can make some key connections.

Another benefit: Creating industry-specific experts. Allow Sheila, the knowledgeable payroll clerk, to blog or tweet about general payroll issues and she may wind up being viewed as an industry expert, which bolsters your company’s image, too. And her morale and satisfaction will likely improve, as well.