Facebook - it's not just for kids

If you are looking to increase the visibility of your business, don’t count out social networking sites. Facebook and Myspace are not just for kids. If you want something for business networking consider LinkedIn as another way to expand your network.

One of the attractive benefits of social networking sites is that they help you see your network of friends and colleagues in a very visual way. For those that kept the perfect Rolodex, think of it as an electronic Rolodex with the potential for instant contact.A few clicks provides you with an instant way to expand your network and meet more people. These sites are simple to manage and frankly can be fun (remember that word?)

Five quick tips for using Facebook

1. Create a professional look for yourself.
2. List your events – let your network know what you are doing.
3. Syndicate your blog on your profile page.
4. Join a group – I was impressed with the groups here and the potential for gathering and sharing information.
5. Create a group for your clients that might want to connect.

Options for social networking

LinkedIn – No thrills and very basic with LinkedIn. This site has high impact in the Google search engine. Another high point is the recommendation section.
Give and receive feedback. Think of this as great electronic resume. Also take a look at the connections your friends and colleagues have – is there someone you would like to meet?

Twitter – Find out where people are and what they are doing. Honestly, this one
was too much work for me. I don’t have time to list every moment of my life.

MySpace – Great for the more free spirited and artistic, in my opinion. If you are in the music, film or television industry it's smart to be listed here. The MySpace artist profiles are the strongest on the web and the most viewed. Looking for a record deal or to promote a film project – start here.

Ning.com - Terrific way to start a social networking site with no money. I actually belong to a film group hosted on Ning, and it's been a wonderful way to have a site that is visual and easy - much better than your basic forums.

I would love to hear from people that are using these sites - share your story.

And if you happen to be on Facebook - add me as friend :)

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=527420029

CB