Why You May Not Want to Shop Online at Work

Ready or not, the month is flying by and it will be December before you know it. That means the holidays are fast approaching, and you have to kickstart your holiday shopping. You may be tempted to save time by sneaking in some online shopping while at the office. (Yes, we know you like to consider it "multitasking.")

But you may want to reconsider that plan, as it may not be worth the risk you are taking. While many consider this type of thing harmless (especially when it's only for a few minutes), many employers don't see it that way. As this article explains, a recent survey showed that half of the employers polled said they are monitoring workers' internet use. What's more, 22 percent said they had fired an employee for non-work related internet activities. And seven percent of HR reps surveyed specifically said they had fired someone for holiday shopping at work.

Even if you are technically on a break when you are shopping for online deals, your employer may still feel it is inappropriate to use company equipment for personal errands such as holiday shopping.

So as tempting as it may be to surf your favorite retailers "just for a few minutes" while on the clock, even the hottest deal isn't worth losing your job.

Do you shop online while at work? Do you worry about getting in trouble for it?

Image courtesy of KeithWilliamson