How to Use a Work Computer Like a Personal Computer

Using your work computer as a personal computer is more a state of mind than a technical skill. Whether at work or at home, computers are similar, unless you are using a mainframe. Few office workers actually use a mainframe and almost no one has one in their home. So, if you are using your work computer as a PC you are using essentially the same kind of equipment as at home. What is different is the surrounding atmosphere. Privacy and discretion are key.

Instructions

1. The first thing you need to do when you want to use your work computer as your personal computer is make sure there are no prying eyes. Some bosses or supervisors do not like you taking care of personal business at work. So, now your office's policies. Take a look around the room. Dim the brightness on your screen if necessary, and turn down or turn off the sound.

2. If you are working with files or sending e-mails or instant messages make sure you are not actually using your office network or system. Use your own ISP (Internet Service Provider) or web-based e-mail. Keep your files on a secure directory. Better still, access them from your home computer. Do not actually put them on your work computer. E-mail them to yourself if you have to. Password protect them if you must store them on your work computer.

3. Be ready at a moment's notice to get out of whatever you are doing. If someone comes, close that file. If you cannot do that in time, minimize it. If you are in the middle of an IM, stop or shrink it. Make sure never to walk away from your desk with anything left up on the screen. Close out all your personal business. No one wants a supervisor or co-worker to read a private or unflattering message on the screen.

4. If you must use personal programs at work, make sure the software is not something that is prohibited at your office. It can be difficult to hide software that is not allowed. If you must install a program, make sure it is something that looks like it could be for office use. Again, do not save your files on the company directory or on your work computer if you can avoid it. If you are playing a game, be prepared to get out of it immediately, or shrink it down. If you are making an on-line purchase, don't be too obvious about it. Keep your credit card tucked under a piece of paper. Don't leave catalogs wide open on your desk.

Tips & Warnings

• Using your work computer as your personal computer can be fun and convenient, but remember--discretion is your watchword. Better to do it later than lose your job.