Why Web Surfing at Work Is a Nonproblem

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I think that surf the internet at work is OK.Melbourne University's Dr Brent Coker says workers who surf the internet for leisure, known as 'Workplace Internet Leisure Browsing' (WILB), are more productive than those who don't. So I like to use website http://www.keeplookingbusy.com.offers you an interface that looks like a Word and keeps out nosy people who are trying to trace what you are doing or browsing while online.

Jain of CA 6:51PM July 14, 2009

As an employer, I believe that the honest and full commitment of an employee trumps almost everything. I want to trust people not to need micromanaging--I don't have the time for it. So I need to know, as you suggested in yesterday's radio interview, Liz, that you are committed to the job and the company. If you are, why should I look over your shoulder?

Sam C of CA 6:12PM August 25, 2008

I'd wager that absenteeism is a far greater concern--employees who abuse sick leave policies and such show flagrant disregard for the health of the company and the burden on coworkers. They also show an obvious lack of passion and purpose in their jobs--and that's a real problem.

Liz Wolgemuth of DC 9:23AM August 23, 2008

I absolutely agree with Liz. A more sophisticated, more technology-aware employee is more valuable. Wasting too much time and not getting one's work done is an issue that needs to be addressed as such, whether it be because of Internet use, excessive office socializing, absenteeism, or other reasons.
We should always address the real problem -- in this case, not focusing on work -- instead of a (frequently misunderstood) proxy for the problem.

Barry Leiba of NY 5:26PM August 22, 2008

"Playing with career fire that sooner or later can burn your house down"--Well put.
I'm not suggesting employees should flout the company rules. I'm suggesting that the 41 percent of companies that bar web surfing ought to let their employees log on and get in touch with the world outside. It will serve them well to have modern employees with relevant, progressive ideas.

Liz Wolgemuth of DC 3:25PM August 22, 2008

Any mere employee who, on a company computer, does banking, shopping, personal e-mail, E-bay bidding, blogging, social site networking, etc., etc. or (of course) porn viewing----is playing with career fire that sooner or later can burn your house down.
You live in an era of key-stroke monitoring software, records retained no telling how long, and that little handbook thing you signed about being willing to be fired for any reason or no reason.

of 2:33PM August 22, 2008