YWLeads - May

Why I Joined Social Networking

by Cynthia Fisher, Member

C Fisher

In college I resisted joining any social networking site for about six months.

I listened to everyone around me talk about them and urge me to join but I just didn't understand the point. Then one night while procrastinating from writing a paper (again) I caved, joined Facebook, and proceeded to invite everyone whom I had ever crossed paths with to be my friend. This was back when Facebook was new and aimed at college students and you actually had to have your college added before you could join. In fact, you had to use your college email to prove that you were a registered student. Now, Facebook is open to anyone and everyone who wants to join, just like Myspace, Friendster, Twitter, and the many other social networking sites in existence. What is good about this? Everyone can find you. What is bad about this? Everyone can find you. In the past few months I have had friend requests from former bosses, an aunt who I have not seen or spoken to in five years, my friend's mother, and even classmates from high school who used to spend more time laughing at me than socializing with me. Entering the world of online social networking has become an equivalent to broadcasting your biography complete with embarrassing photos on national tv, if you are not careful. I don't know if I should be more amused or frightened when people I barely talk to message me to see why my status message doesn't have a little happy face today. But then again, maybe that is what I get for leaving dramatic updates. So why do I continue going on? Because I live nearly 5,000 miles away from home and can use the different sites to keep connected with friends and family on the East Coast, while at the same time keeping up with the coworkers and friends I have met here. All of that networking and socializing can be exhausting. Good thing I can do it in the comfort of my own home, all while wearing sweatpants and not an ounce of make-up.

Breaking Down Social Networking
By Cynthia Fisher, Member

Facebook, Myspace, Twitter, Friendster, Xanga, LiveJournal. Sometimes the name of the latest social networking site sounds like a foreign language, and sometimes figuring out how to use them feels as hard as learning Greek. What to do, where to start, how to choose, what to say... Let's face it; the world of social networking can be completely intimidating and overwhelming.

Best advice? Keep it simple. You don't have to join every site in existence but it doesn't hurt to take a look at them and see what works with your interests. Looking to connect with old friends? Facebook and Myspace can fit your needs. Want to check out updates from not only friends and family but companies, organizations, and artists? Twitter is the way to go. Simply want to write and be able to share your thoughts with others? Check out Xanga, LiveJournal or one of the many other online journal sites. The list goes on and on. Whatever your need, there is a site for you.

First step to joining any site is creating a profile. Here you have the option of exposing as little or as much as you want about your interests and hobbies. This is especially important if you are looking to not just connect with old friends but to meet new ones. However, be careful with how much personal information you reveal, even if you keep your profile "private". You are still putting your information on the web and you can always give your email, phone number, or even location at a later time through a direct message. As for pictures, do what you feel comfortable with. Some people prefer to keep their profile completely generic and use photos of pets or scenery, while others post a few pictures of themselves or family that are low-key and tasteful. On the other hand, some people feel ok with showing off every photo they have ever taken. Just remember that your profile picture is usually available to everyone; and yes, your child may find you; and yes, a lot of companies do search social networking sites to see if potential employees or even current employees have profiles. If you are unsure about what you are revealing, ask yourself: Would I really want my parent/child/boss/ seeing this?

Once you are set up, now it is time to have fun! Check out your site's capabilities and take advantage of what they have to offer. Reconnect with old friends, meet new people with similar interests, discover new musical artists, find out updates on your favorite author, and look for events being put on by your local organizations. The possibilities are endless when you enter the world of social networking. Always use caution and be responsible, but enjoy the benefits of putting yourself out there and online. After a bit of practice, all of the intimidation will have disappeared and you'll be a master of social networking.

To find out more about Social Networking and branding yourself with social media at our upcoming Lunch Club event, click here to register!