How is the use of instant messaging (IM) at work different from the use of instant messaging in one's personal life? Provide examples

What will be an ideal response?

Answer: In a business environment an employee will have to modify her approach to IM if they want to project a professional image. One should begin by learning what the company's IM standards are, and then comply with them. If the company doesn't have formal standards the employee could follow these general guidelines. 1) Focus on business: even if coworker's IM status says he is not busy, do not interrupt with personal messages. Limit your workplace IMs to workplace topics. 2) Keep messages simple: IM users expect text will be brief and to the point. 3) Use a professional-sounding IM username. It should be easily identified and attached to a business email address. A combination of first and last name is a good idea. 4) Be professional and confidential. Assume that others will read your IMs, so use language that you would feel comfortable having anyone read. Never convey company-sensitive information. 5) Save important messages. If your messages are not automatically archived, keep your own records so that you can refer to messages in the future.