Final answer:
Using the internet for job-related research is not considered shirking as it pertains to work duties. Shirking involves activities that distract from work like texting friends, doing personal online shopping, and posting on personal social media accounts during work hours.
Step-by-step explanation:
Shirking refers to the practice of avoiding work responsibilities, which can have various manifestations in the workplace.
Activities such as texting with friends, online shopping, and using social media for personal reasons during work hours however, are forms of shirking because they distract from work responsibilities and reduce productivity. While social networking sites like LinkedIn can be instrumental in job hunting and career development, it's important to differentiate between professional usage for career advancement and personal use that interferes with job duties. For job seekers, using the internet strategically is part of tapping into the hidden job market and should not be confused with unproductive online activities.