Value of Internet Social Networking Sites

By exploring the customs of the Victorian era, a student of history can get a clear understanding of the value of Internet social networking sites.

A Brief History of Social Networking

Back in the late 1800s, before the advent of computers or telephones, those who aspired to status, wealth and success had a clear understanding of the value of the social network. For example, during the Victorian era, calling cards were used as a means of requesting a visit to a woman of prominent social status. These cards, which were quite elaborate, could be compared to the detailed pages that can be seen on MySpace and other Internet social networking sites. They were essentially a form of self expression. However, they served a much higher purpose in the social stratosphere of the 1800s.

Calling cards were always prominently displayed on the wall nearest the entrance to the home. This allowed visitors to see which of the prominent society women comprised the social network of the lady of the house. If the visitor believed that one of her hostess’ acquaintances would prove to be advantageous to herself or her husband, she would ask for an introduction. Her willingness to do so was based on your behavior in the social setting known as the tea party.

Social Networking in the Millennium

It’s interesting to note that modern social networking sites function in a similar fashion. Victorians gained acceptance by following the rules of etiquette. Online social networkers must adhere to the rules of netiquette. Your “friend request” is the equivalent of the calling card, and your online behavior determines whether you will be accepted into the huge, online “tea party” known as the social network. Therein lays the beauty. In the 21st century, the value of Internet social networking sites extends way beyond a small circle of friends. Given the global aspects of the World Wide Web, your reputation can extend to all parts of the world. If it suits your purposes, you can be a part of the cyber tea party in Japan. As such, professionals are quickly discovering the value of Internet social networking sites as a means of promoting their businesses, finding jobs or discovering potential employees.

The Value of Internet Social Networking Sites for Professionals

For example, Linkedin is a social network that is primarily used for making business connections. In fact, unlike MySpace and FaceBook, Linkedin uses the word “connections” as opposed to “friends,” which implies a more serious and professional cyber-ambiance. After joining Linkedin, you can peruse the connections of your connections. If someone might be advantageous for your career, you can simply ask for an introduction.

For business owners, this provides a low cost opportunity to create a “buzz” about a product. This “buzz’ is also known as “viral marketing,” which Wikipedia defines as using existing social networks to create brand awareness of a given product.

Social networking differs from advertising in that it allows you to portray a significant amount of information at a minimal cost. Unlike advertising, which tends to be static, a MySpace or FaceBook page has ongoing content, which in turn attracts ongoing readers.

Internet Social Networking Strategies

A successful social networking plan involves the following preliminary steps:

1. Set up a Page: You have to be in it to win it.
2. Create Content: In “web-speak,” content is king. This includes updated blogs, photo and video.
3. Make Friends: This is not a random act. Choices should be based on what is known as a person’s social network potential, which is based on the size of his or her network, as well as his or her ability to have a positive influence on the reputation of your business.
4. Make Friends with the Friends of Your Friends: Once again, choose wisely. For business purposes, it’s better to have a concentrated group of friends or connections that are relevant to your business, as opposed to thousands of connections who may be likely to spam your page.

Sharing Social Networking Content

Aside from making valuable connections, social networking allows you to share valuable content with your new circle of friends in cyberspace. For example, MySpace bulletins are an excellent vehicle for sharing news about what’s happening in your business. However, a well written blog can help spread the word beyond your circle of friends. At the bottom of any blog post, you’ll notice any icon that’s says “Share This,” which will allow you to submit your blog posts to social book-marking sites such as Digg and Stumble Upon. Social book-marking sites are similar to social networking, in that they allow you to expand upon your connections in cyberspace. The difference is that social book-marking sites allow you to save and characterize a collection of bookmarks, i.e. blog posts and share them throughout the Internet.

Beyond Business: Internet Social Networking for Friendship Sake

While there are many advantages of networking in business, some people simply use it as a way to find new friends and connect with people from the past. If you haven’t seen your best friend from high school in years, you can post photos of your wedding, your kids, your dog, your husband, etc. Many people turn to their social networks in times of grief and tragedy. For some, it’s a safe way to express their sadness while still maintaining some sense of privacy.

Frequent travelers also enjoy using social networks. The popularity of Trip Advisor is an excellent example. Travelers, who are not connected to any particular hotel chain or restaurant, can share their stories with other travelers who are interested in the area. In some cases, a local resident of the area might even offer to show the visitor around.

Whether you are seeking a low-cost viral marketing plan or a chance to make new friends, an Internet social network can be a valuable resource.

• Safe Facebook Applications
• How Do I Make a Podcast
• Blogging the Bible

• Facebook Login Problems
• Facebook Sign In
• Free Lesbian Chat Rooms
• Best Facebook Proxy Sites
• Funny Facebook Status

• Category:About Social Networking
• Advantages and Disadvantages of Social Networking
• Main Page
• Free Social Networking Sites
• Advertising on Social Networking Sites