Employers usually regard social networking websites as costly time wasters, but one company is insisting all its staff create online profiles at sites such as Facebook, MySpace and Bebo.

Recognition Marketing and Public Relations, which will soon open a new office in Lichfield, has told staff that they should set up at least one online profile.

Each of the 12-strong team is actively encouraged to use the sites as networking tools and to promote events and products for the business's portfolio of around 60 clients.

Recognition Marketing and Public Relations partner Frances Bourne said: "Sites such as Facebook, MySpace and Bebo, far from being an impediment to the work of a media professional, are actually the latest tools which can be used to good effect by our team.

"Rather than fight against the social networking culture which is sweeping the world, we believe in embracing the possibilities it offers."

Two thirds of British employers have banned social networking sites from the office, according to a recent study by internet security firm Clearswift.

Most are worried that employees will waste work time chatting to friends online and that confidential information could be leaked over the internet.

But there are growing signs that employers are recognising the advantages that online networking can offer.

California's Cisco Systems actively encourages its workers to use Facebook and similar sites and has set up its own version, called the Idea Zone. It believes online social networks encourage creativity, the sharing of ideas and a collaborative approach to working.