Online social networks have become so entwined in teens’ lifestyles that many would consider their ability to access them during work hours when weighing a job offer.

A recent survey focused on the ethical implications of social networking in the workplace found that 88 percent of the teens surveyed used social networks every day, and 58 percent said having access to social networks at work was important to them.

Many companies will have to make policy decisions on whether to grant access to social networks during the workday due to concerns about unethical usage, time theft, spreading rumors about co-workers or managers, and the potential for leaking company secrets.

Another survey showed more than a third of adult respondents rarely, if ever, considered what their bosses, colleagues or clients would think about comments, videos or photos they posted online.

In the teen survey, 40 percent said they did not consider the potential reactions of college admissions officers, 38 percent did not consider the reactions of present or future employers, and 30 percent did not consider their parents reaction to the content they posted online.

Social networking has become so critical to the younger generation of workers, having access to the sites might someday be viewed as an employee perk, along the lines of health benefits or a company cell phone.