Comment: Who have you poked lately?

In this world of political correctness, the headline of this week's comment might attract a double-take or two. But it's not some sort of neanderthal approach to winning contracts, or some euphemism for a successful date. Ask anyone under the age of 25 - and an increasing proportion of the rest of the population and they'll tell you they're referring to the latest online networking opportunity - Facebook.

The papers have been full of this growing phenomenon, and it even merited a mention on The Archers - proof that it is either becoming really mainstream, or is about to fall deeply out of fashion. My bet, though, would be on the former.

There is no doubt that the site - which simply involves setting up your own profile and waiting until people want to befriend you, or 'poke' you online - has caused ructions within some firms. Like CJ's YouTube exposés earlier this year, our Facebook feature this week uncovered some very interesting discussions within some of the UK's biggest contractors.

For many employers, the easiest option would be to ban access to Facebook and similar sites. It would save time, reduce distractions and cut the chance of any negative feelings about the company being aired in public. Or would it? Banning it could just as easily see comments posted out of work hours become less positive - which is hardly helpful for companies attempting to recruit young people and graduates who are born web-savvy.

If you feel like taking a leap into the unknown, log in to Facebook.com, set up your own profile and become one of CJ Foreman's friends by joining his Foreman's Hut.

Yes, it may initially seem like a rather odd and impersonal way of networking, but it works for some people, and construction is all about networking and meeting new people. Well-run companies with a happy workforce have little to fear from Facebook - and it could prove to be a successful way of recruiting new staff in this web age. After all, if it's good enough for Skanska, Taylor Woodrow, Laing O'Rourke, The Archers...

Emma Penny, editor, Contract Journal