Ask an expert

Q Will online social networking hurt my professional reputation?

A Social networking sites can be leveraged as effective business tools for some professionals, but many companies limit access. Make sure you understand and adhere to your company’s social networking policy and let common sense prevail when using Facebook and similar sites — even outside of business hours. Regrettable posts can be a career liability. Here are a few more tips:

Use caution. Be familiar with each site’s privacy settings to ensure personal details or photos you post can be viewed only by people you choose.

Keep it professional. If your employer allows you to use social networking sites while at work, do so to make connections with others in your field or to follow industry news — not to catchup with family or friends.

Stay positive. Avoid complaining about your manager and coworkers. Once you’ve hit submit or send, you can’t always take back your words — and there’s a chance they could be read by the very people you’re criticizing.

Polish your image. Tweet or blog about a topic related to your profession. You’ll build a reputation as a subject matter expert, which could help you advance in your career.

Monitor yourself. Even if your employer has a liberal policy about social networking, limit the time you spend checking your Facebook page or reading other people’s tweets to avoid a productivity drain.

Dave Willmer is executive director of international ITstaffing service Robert Half Technology