Social
networks exist for a variety of reasons and serve many purposes for
those who use them.
If you are a regular Internet user, you probably already have a
pretty good idea what social networking is. And you know that social
networking web sites are increasing and doing quite well for the
network creators as well as those who join them.
First, here's a rather broad definition of Social networking:
It's the gathering of people in an online community for the purpose
of sharing interests and activities.
Being a bit more specific, you can define a few major segments
involved with most all of the community activities, some of which
are more appropriate for people promoting products or services on
the Internet. |
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SOCIALIZING
Socializing is one of the primary ways that we communicate with
each other. And thanks to the Internet, it's possible to socialize
on virtually whatever level you desire with people from all walks of
life. Networks exist for every interest; from the simply frivolous
to the absolute essentials. And because the Internet affords a level
of anonymity that many people appreciate, this electronic form of
socializing can be intimate, therapeutic, confidential and just
plain fun - possibly dangerous?.
NETWORKING
This normally brings to mind the idea of people gathering together
to create a group with a common goal such as finding jobs or raising
funds for a charity. Today the Internet connects people from around
the world into social networks for sharing pictures, blogs, live
chats, instant messaging, emailing and virtually any other social
idea you can
imagine.
AFFILIATE MARKETING
There are opportunities to promote products and services through
exposure that comes with belonging to a social network. You've
probably seen the advertisements placed on the pages of social
network members. It has become one of the greatest ways to promote
affiliate sales by marketing a business on every available social
network.
SEO (Search Engine Optimization)
Many website owners are turning to social networks to gain added SEO with general information about a particular subject. These
articles can be placed as blog comments or stand alone pieces that
must be placed in the applicable forums. With the proper use of
certain key words placed as back links in the articles, an article
can create search engine placement benefits for those working to
generate new customers and increase profits.
FUN
With so many pressing situations being broadcast in the media, the
opportunity to connect with others in a social setting such as the
ones that Internet based social networks provide is fun. After a
hard day at work or searching for work, there is plenty of pleasure
to be derived from sitting in front of the computer and finding
several messages from friends in your social network. Whether it is
games such as role playing or sharing such as how-to features, the
fun aspect of social networking can relieve stress and provide hours
of enjoyable time online.
RISK
Be aware, however, that with any activity on the Internet, there
exists the potential for unscrupulous people to take advantage of
your relaxed, and sometimes off-guard state of mind while
absorbed
in socializing.
So if you have not joined a social network yet, go to your favorite
search engine, and search for some social networks related to your
interest. Find one that you are comfortable with, one that looks
active, and join the crowd!
Tags:Twitter,
Facebook,
MySpace,
networking communities
.. Richard Rossbauer
Follow
me on Twitter |
