5 Work Life tips to navigate Cyber Monday

The daunting task of work life balance takes on new meaning this holiday season. Everyone's trying to hold onto their job, and still stay in the holiday spirit. While we might be spending about a hundred bucks less than last year, according to Accenture's 2008 Holiday Shopping Survey - we're still spending.

The business consulting firm's survey also found one in three people would surf the Internet for deals on Cyber Monday at work. Experts imagine some of that deal-surfing will take place at work - although the benefits of the mad Cyber Monday rush - might just be an illusion. I spoke with Professor Joel Evans, of Hofstra University's Zarb School of Business for the skinny on navigating Cyber Monday.

1. Don't rush to buy, take a chill: "There's no reason to run out there and get that deal today, they'll be there tomorrow," Evans told me. Due to the slumping economy, he said, buying into the "in-your-face" on-line ads can be deceiving, and might not get you the best deal.
2. Read the fine print regarding shipping: "You have to be sure the overall price with the shipping is a good deal," said Evans, adding that sometimes the default shipping choice will be the most pricey. You might have to go an extra few clicks to get the less expensive shipping fee. And pay considerable attention to the promised shipping date; be sure the potential delivery date fits within your parameters.
3. Know your return policy: If you're concerned about being able to return your item, Evans says, it's best to buy from a "brick & click," a firm which has a real live store with real live people to talk to - or return to.
4. Surfing at work: Check with your company's Internet surfing policy. Evans says, "Many employers encourage social networking for business purposes - others do not - and they're not talking about E-bay."  Don't shop on their dime unless it's ok with them to do so, and be sure to hit the net on a break.
5. Cyber shopping at work can be risky: If you're clicking in a rush - you can make costly mistakes. And if you're surfing when you should be working - it might cost you your job or career. As Evans says, there's no reason to rush anyway. Accenture's survey indicates some consumers are already thinking like that. 38% of those surveyed plan to shop later in the season for better deals.