The Internet and associated technology have certainly made communicating more interesting. However, there is etiquette to follow. Blogs, for example, are versatile and can be used as a diary, daily journal, marketing tool, family communication vehicle, and so much more. When the computer first came into businesses, the focus was on how to use it for a particular job. Workers have pretty well mastered that aspect. Now they're working on the finer points of computer use for blogs, email, and personal Web sites.

However, employees need to be careful about accessing their personal site and information on the company computer. Before you jazz up your work computer with fancy add-ons, or fill your personal site with company information, or use your computer for personal purposes, there are a few points to keep in mind. First, everyone should know the company's policies on proper computer use, say advisors at the ePolicy Institute. Check your employee handbook. Some company policies restrict text messaging, camera phones, and software downloads. Following are a few things to remember about using company resources.

Web surfing: Keep it to a minimum. Don't spend a lot of time on personal email. This is the company time, not personal time. Be cautious with your use of blogs: Never use your supervisor's name. Use the company name only with permission; make sure to say only good things about the company or else, say nothing at all. Posting information about the company's markets, marketing strategies, product development or business strategy can harm the company and put your own job in jeopardy.

Remember, your personal postings live forever: Keep a conservative profile and use only flattering, classic photos of yourself and others.

Finally, proofread! With anything on a blog or online profile, check for spelling and grammar mistakes. Once it's on the Web, you can never get it back. Search engines are likely to preserve it forever.

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