Wednesday, March 26, 2008

So what exactly is social networking?

Social networking is a topic that has been gaining much interest and publicity lately. It seems that social networking will be a common part of our lives. A huge benefit of those utilizing social networking is connecting with others that have the same interests or are part of the same industry.

So what exactly is social networking? Simply, social networking is a way to seek connection and bond with others. A very well known social networking site is the hugely popular Friendswin. Although the field of social networking is a broad one, it basically consists of two areas: socializing with friends and professional networking. The true power of social networking is the unhindered connection of people with similar interests. It is about meeting those that have like interests and being free to express yourself. It has become a part of people's identities.

Joining a social networking site enables you to gain introductions to many people who you would not otherwise be able to gain access to. Social features provided by most community sites are blogging, email, groups, classifieds and forums. One of the amenities provided by some community sites are free chat rooms or conference rooms. It is the easiest way to share photos, journals and interests with a growing network of mutual friends. And you thought social networking was all about text-messaging among bored teenagers. The goal of virtual networking is to get noticed, to meet people and to develop relationships on your own time and in your own space.

If you haven joined a social networking site yet, I highly recommend that you try one today. The friends that you can make are just one of the many benefits to social networking online. To join a social networking site, you will have to go through a registration process. To start finding new friends, you must create a profile first and tell others a little about yourself. Without a personal profile, it is difficult or impossible to tell what your interests are. Just remember that although online communities are a great place to meet other internet users, they can also be dangerous. One way to protect yourself, is to only use your first name in your profile. In your profile if you are required to list the city and the state that you live in, you may want to think about using a nearby city or town, especially if you live in a small town. In addition to the above precautionary measures, it is advised that you do not post detailed information on your children, the location of your home, your income or when you will be gone for awhile.

Gerald Franklin
You Google Me

5 comments:

Wavecritter said...

"The goal of virtual networking is to get noticed, to meet people and to develop relationships on your own time and in your own space." This is well laid out and explanatory definition of what it means to social network! Thanks

John Raines said...

great post about social networking - really good information i enjoyed reading it -John Raines Google Me

Kurt Mitchell said...

Your are right about giving out your kids information Gerald. One should never, ever do that.

MARYYX said...

It's certainly obvious that you practice what you preach. I hadn't had my bloglog account open more than a few minutes - and there you were, as a person who had checked out my profile. Pretty impressive.

Wavecritter is a good friend of mine - and is teaching me the ropes.

Have a great day.
maryyx

Unknown said...

Much Congratulations Gerald. The is great -- my goal is to get there as well. You are doing a great job. I hope you don't mind, I am quoting you in my next blog.
Grace & Peace
Miss Julia

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