Almost half of UK employees (44 percent) believe that social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook negatively impact office productivity, says a new study.

Furthermore, 73 percent stated that sharing opinions about work on these channels is inappropriate, and over half of those surveyed (55 percent) feel that mixing personal and professional connections could cause problems in the workplace.

Despite these concerns, just 6 percent of the British workforce has been told to stop using social media at work.

The findings were revealed in the latest Kelly Global Workforce Index, an annual survey conducted by Kelly Services. Almost 170,000 people in 30 countries participated in the survey, including more than 3,500 in the UK.

The results of the study have been documented in this infographic.

“We need to dispel the myth that social media is for leisure time only,” said Andrew Cook, general manager for UK and Ireland at Kelly Services. “If used well, it can be an essential communication tool for your existing workforce to engage with customers and be vital in finding and attracting new talent to your business.

“Most people fear discussions about their current employer could be negative, when in fact your workforce can be your best social brand ambassadors. Many companies view social media as inherently risky due to its immediacy and tone, but those employers that are embracing it as part of their recruitment strategy are reaping the rewards.”

(Source: Kelly Services. Computer image via Shutterstock.)