Social Networking 101: What is Social Networking?

This is one of a 3 part series on social networking.

You’ve heard the term “social networking.” You have probably seen ads for MySpace and Facebook, you may even have children who use one or both of these sites. However, what is social networking?

Social networking, defined by various users and groups, is essentially a series of links to friends, family and/or business associates; hence, a network of people who communicate with each other on a designated Web site.

What is social networking and how can I benefit from it? Not only is social networking good for college students and business colleagues, but it is also good for connecting to people one would not ordinarily do business with or know personally. Through groups such as graduating classes, business specialties, or personal interest, one can link to even more people, ideas to increase their network.

Social networks build a reputation for you and the company you represent. You are more likely to find seminars, clubs, free stuff and clients by joining groups within a social networking site such as FastPitchNetworking or Twitter. On some social networking sites you are able to become an expert in a field or subject, so that others will ask you questions thus increasing your reputation status or points. The higher the status or points the more popular you’ll be, which equals more clicks to your profile and could mean more business or contacts for potential clients.

What is social networking popularity among people over 30, you might ask? It may seem that this form of networking is only for Generation X and Y, not true. More people over 30 are becoming familiar with business social networks and using it to their advantage. According to study statistics released in June by Rapleaf, the 25-34 age group are more likely to use the Flickr and LinkedIn social network sites, and the younger age (14-24) use Facebook and MySpace. However, visitors to MySpace and members including popular and upcoming musicians use MySpace to share their music with fans, which also represent a wide range of ages.

Look forward to the blog next in this series: social networking facts.

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