Social Networking: the Five Biggest Mistakes Nichepreneurs™ Make
Susan Friedman asked:
Over half of all Americans between the ages of 15-34 consider themselves active social network users. They regularly visit well-known social networking sites, such as MySpace or Facebook, or log onto specialty social networks, like Ravelry (devoted to the fiber arts) or GroupRecipes (for the foodie set). While industry research tells us that television watching is declining, especially among this age group, social network use is on the rise: average users spend seven to eight hours a week online.
This time spent on social networks clearly affects buying decisions. An estimated forty percent of all social networkers say they use social networking sites to learn more about brands or products they like, according to GreenBiz.com, with twenty-eight percent saying they’ve had a brand or product recommended to them by a friend.
The message is clear. Strategic use of social networking can help a company grow. It’s an effective use of target marketing, reaching out to one’s customers where they are.
However, in order to capitalize on social networking’s power, you have to do it right. Execution is everything. Make no mistake. Every time you log onto Facebook, MySpace, or other social networking platform, you’re representing your company in a very visible arena. The world is, quite literally, watching.
There are five common mistakes Nichepreneurs™ make when it comes to social networking. Here’s what they are — and more importantly, how to avoid them!
Mistake #1: Dismissing Social Networking as “Just a Fad”
Social networking may have emerged as a phenomenon only recently, but it is a manifestation of something as old as time — word of mouth! Customers value the opinions of colleagues, relatives, peers and friends above almost anything else. This has been true for generations. Social networking has merely expanded the definition of friend. Technology has made it easier to communicate with more people than ever before — a person could have hundreds of friends they’ve never once met in person. That’s a power and a privilege that no one is going to let just fade away.
Mistake #2: Mistaking Social Networking for Advertising
Social networking is a form of relationship marketing. It works best when you view it as an opportunity to build your brand, a prime platform to let your customer base know who you are and what you represent.
At the same time, you’ve got a fantastic chance to learn about your customers. If you actually stop and read what they post, you’ll learn a tremendous amount about who your customers are and what’s important to them. Where else do you get your customer’s pure, unvarnished opinions served up to you on a silver platter?
Don’t spoil this prime market research opportunity with unwelcome advertising. It’s fine to let people know you’re in business, but that can’t be the only thing you bring to the conversation.
Mistake #3: Failing to Connect Online Interaction with Real World Consequences
This mistake is often a generational problem. Nichepreneurs who grew up before the Internet was such an omnipresent force can have a hard time understanding how words on a computer screen can have real consequences on the every day course of business.
Compounding the problem is the fun, freewheeling atmosphere prevalent on many social networking platforms. It’s easy to forget the potential results when the commentary’s flying fast and furious. However, your words can come back and haunt you later. Remember — it all counts! The days where an organization can dismiss poor behavior with “It’s just the internet” are long gone!
Mistake #4: Using Sock Puppets
Sock puppets is the term applied to social networking accounts that are created with the intent of hiding the poster’s true identity. Individuals often create sock puppets in an effort to avoid the real life consequences discussed in mistake number three!
Sock puppets can be used to boost, support, or defend a company’s position. Conversely, they can be used to tear down, disparage, or make negative commentary about a competitor’s organization, products, or services.
Either way, it is a bad idea! Many denizens of social networks are incredibly tech-savvy, and it won’t take them long at all to discover who is really behind a string of negative or hostile commentary. Exposure can be a public relations nightmare.
Honesty is the best policy. Either be willing to own your commentary, by posting under your own identity, or don’t say them at all!
Mistake #5: Overestimating Social Networking’s Role
Social networking is powerful. It is influential. It is, in many cases, free to participate in. However, it is NOT the end all, be all solution to your marketing needs. While it is tempting to try to solve many of your marketing challenges with social networking, it is important to remember that social networking is a tool, not the only tool.
Use social networking efforts to augment your existing marketing efforts. There are small, start up companies that market themselves solely via social networking. However, this is a self-limiting strategy: even if you reach every single person on that network, you’re still missing out on a large number of potential customers who never log on.
Keep your perspective. Social networking might not eat into your budget, but it does take time. Realize that at best, social networking can significantly augment and enhance your marketing and promotional efforts — but it will never wholly replace it!
Over half of all Americans between the ages of 15-34 consider themselves active social network users. They regularly visit well-known social networking sites, such as MySpace or Facebook, or log onto specialty social networks, like Ravelry (devoted to the fiber arts) or GroupRecipes (for the foodie set). While industry research tells us that television watching is declining, especially among this age group, social network use is on the rise: average users spend seven to eight hours a week online.
This time spent on social networks clearly affects buying decisions. An estimated forty percent of all social networkers say they use social networking sites to learn more about brands or products they like, according to GreenBiz.com, with twenty-eight percent saying they’ve had a brand or product recommended to them by a friend.
The message is clear. Strategic use of social networking can help a company grow. It’s an effective use of target marketing, reaching out to one’s customers where they are.
However, in order to capitalize on social networking’s power, you have to do it right. Execution is everything. Make no mistake. Every time you log onto Facebook, MySpace, or other social networking platform, you’re representing your company in a very visible arena. The world is, quite literally, watching.
There are five common mistakes Nichepreneurs™ make when it comes to social networking. Here’s what they are — and more importantly, how to avoid them!
Mistake #1: Dismissing Social Networking as “Just a Fad”
Social networking may have emerged as a phenomenon only recently, but it is a manifestation of something as old as time — word of mouth! Customers value the opinions of colleagues, relatives, peers and friends above almost anything else. This has been true for generations. Social networking has merely expanded the definition of friend. Technology has made it easier to communicate with more people than ever before — a person could have hundreds of friends they’ve never once met in person. That’s a power and a privilege that no one is going to let just fade away.
Mistake #2: Mistaking Social Networking for Advertising
Social networking is a form of relationship marketing. It works best when you view it as an opportunity to build your brand, a prime platform to let your customer base know who you are and what you represent.
At the same time, you’ve got a fantastic chance to learn about your customers. If you actually stop and read what they post, you’ll learn a tremendous amount about who your customers are and what’s important to them. Where else do you get your customer’s pure, unvarnished opinions served up to you on a silver platter?
Don’t spoil this prime market research opportunity with unwelcome advertising. It’s fine to let people know you’re in business, but that can’t be the only thing you bring to the conversation.
Mistake #3: Failing to Connect Online Interaction with Real World Consequences
This mistake is often a generational problem. Nichepreneurs who grew up before the Internet was such an omnipresent force can have a hard time understanding how words on a computer screen can have real consequences on the every day course of business.
Compounding the problem is the fun, freewheeling atmosphere prevalent on many social networking platforms. It’s easy to forget the potential results when the commentary’s flying fast and furious. However, your words can come back and haunt you later. Remember — it all counts! The days where an organization can dismiss poor behavior with “It’s just the internet” are long gone!
Mistake #4: Using Sock Puppets
Sock puppets is the term applied to social networking accounts that are created with the intent of hiding the poster’s true identity. Individuals often create sock puppets in an effort to avoid the real life consequences discussed in mistake number three!
Sock puppets can be used to boost, support, or defend a company’s position. Conversely, they can be used to tear down, disparage, or make negative commentary about a competitor’s organization, products, or services.
Either way, it is a bad idea! Many denizens of social networks are incredibly tech-savvy, and it won’t take them long at all to discover who is really behind a string of negative or hostile commentary. Exposure can be a public relations nightmare.
Honesty is the best policy. Either be willing to own your commentary, by posting under your own identity, or don’t say them at all!
Mistake #5: Overestimating Social Networking’s Role
Social networking is powerful. It is influential. It is, in many cases, free to participate in. However, it is NOT the end all, be all solution to your marketing needs. While it is tempting to try to solve many of your marketing challenges with social networking, it is important to remember that social networking is a tool, not the only tool.
Use social networking efforts to augment your existing marketing efforts. There are small, start up companies that market themselves solely via social networking. However, this is a self-limiting strategy: even if you reach every single person on that network, you’re still missing out on a large number of potential customers who never log on.
Keep your perspective. Social networking might not eat into your budget, but it does take time. Realize that at best, social networking can significantly augment and enhance your marketing and promotional efforts — but it will never wholly replace it!
If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!
Zigime, the International Social Networking Website
luna tylor asked:
Though the World is round in shape we use to say nook and corner of the world because it is all belongs to the living being in it particularly the human being, anyone can get birth by the way of their parents but getting knowledge and understanding of the world is different and his/her own individual attention, unless we know somebody in the World there is no use of living therefore the zigime helps you to get friends world wide knowingly or unknowingly via social network.
When we say social networking particularly with the US population in mind, there are certain things we need to consider.
Why is the United States market being called the best in the world?
Is it because their nationality is a mix of the entire world’s population? Or is it because of their wealth? Maybe, but we would suggest that it has more to do with the opportunity they offer to the rest of the world. ZigiMe is attracting more members from the US than any other country.
When it comes to attracting American members, ZigiMe compares well with other similar websites. 65%, and counting.
ZigiMe helps you make friends and business contacts worldwide via social network.
ZigiMe, is website that has all the categories that the sophisticated member demands of Social Networking these days.
Friendships, Relationships, Entertainment, Business, Unlimited Photo albums, Music, Classifieds, Bartering services and a nice Workspace feature where you can conduct all your business. And customizing your personal profile doesn’t get any easier than on ZigiMe.
The “zigime” is only the site which sites overall the world, so it knows exactly the requirements of others though may not be known that, as a matter fact, being a human one needs a kind of relaxation according to one’s needs, in that case one must know what exactly one need which only the “zigime” knows about it.
Soon enter into “zigime” one will realize and get what more than one needs, it may be a regular concept that whoever enter into a site like “zigime” will get new friendship, which is a new relationship, entertainment, business through the friends can show one selves over all the world by the photo columns via “zigime”, can get resting house by friends can send documents through “zigime”s workspace, send messages through mail freely
There is a column where one can identify the number of friends one has up to date, can fix the background for one’s profile according to ones wishes, and so on and so forth.
Hence the space is limited in the front page the “zigime” could not explain which are all left than the given.
As you think the motive of zigime is absolutely not to do business through you, its all plan is to make “you” (the plural) into “you” (singular)
friend networking site-friend networking online social-Find social Networking.
Though the World is round in shape we use to say nook and corner of the world because it is all belongs to the living being in it particularly the human being, anyone can get birth by the way of their parents but getting knowledge and understanding of the world is different and his/her own individual attention, unless we know somebody in the World there is no use of living therefore the zigime helps you to get friends world wide knowingly or unknowingly via social network.
When we say social networking particularly with the US population in mind, there are certain things we need to consider.
Why is the United States market being called the best in the world?
Is it because their nationality is a mix of the entire world’s population? Or is it because of their wealth? Maybe, but we would suggest that it has more to do with the opportunity they offer to the rest of the world. ZigiMe is attracting more members from the US than any other country.
When it comes to attracting American members, ZigiMe compares well with other similar websites. 65%, and counting.
ZigiMe helps you make friends and business contacts worldwide via social network.
ZigiMe, is website that has all the categories that the sophisticated member demands of Social Networking these days.
Friendships, Relationships, Entertainment, Business, Unlimited Photo albums, Music, Classifieds, Bartering services and a nice Workspace feature where you can conduct all your business. And customizing your personal profile doesn’t get any easier than on ZigiMe.
The “zigime” is only the site which sites overall the world, so it knows exactly the requirements of others though may not be known that, as a matter fact, being a human one needs a kind of relaxation according to one’s needs, in that case one must know what exactly one need which only the “zigime” knows about it.
Soon enter into “zigime” one will realize and get what more than one needs, it may be a regular concept that whoever enter into a site like “zigime” will get new friendship, which is a new relationship, entertainment, business through the friends can show one selves over all the world by the photo columns via “zigime”, can get resting house by friends can send documents through “zigime”s workspace, send messages through mail freely
There is a column where one can identify the number of friends one has up to date, can fix the background for one’s profile according to ones wishes, and so on and so forth.
Hence the space is limited in the front page the “zigime” could not explain which are all left than the given.
As you think the motive of zigime is absolutely not to do business through you, its all plan is to make “you” (the plural) into “you” (singular)
friend networking site-friend networking online social-Find social Networking.
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3 Important Aspects of Social Networking Web Design
Jonathan Mac asked:
Creating social networking websites is getting easier each day. However, designing successful social networking websites has three major requirements:
1. Uniqueness
2. Lots of creativity
3. Lots of patience (time)
If a social networking website is designed based on these three aspects there is no doubt that the project will be a grand success. Here, in this article, you will find the necessity of the three main factors of social networking web design.
The need of Uniqueness
Everyone using the Internet will be aware of the fact that the Social Networking arena is overcrowded. Hence uniqueness of the social networking websites is very much essential to stand out from the crowd. To make your social networking website design unique, you will have to spend lots of time in analyzing the aspects of other popular social networking websites like Facebook, Myspace and Orkut. You have to offer the users of your social networking website with something different and useful that most of the other popular social networking websites do not offer. One of the reasons behind the popularity of facebook is the handful of useful applications. There is a cool application called “Compare me” which allows users to compare themselves with the peers. Providing such cool, interactive social networking applications in your own website will attract more people.
The need of Creativity
Creativity is very much essential for designing social networking websites. The above said uniqueness in social networking web design can be achieved only by vivid creativity. So where does the creativity come from? Creativity comes as a result of extensive research. With lots of social networking websites out there, learning what to do with your social networking website is very easy.
The need of time
Both the above said aspects involved in designing social networking websites depend upon time. The more the time you spend in designing your social networking website, the more will be the success of the same. Researching what the competitor social networking websites are offering and coming up with creative ideas to make your social networking website look unique will eat up much of your time.
Bottom line
If you lack anyone of these there aspects of social networking website design, it’s better to get some professional help rather than do it by yourself. There are many professional social networking web designers with hands on experience in the same. All you have to do is to express you requirement and they will take care of everything- from planning to effective social networking web designing. There are some unique social networking web design companies who offer promotion of your website along with designing. These Social networking web design services offered by the experts with strategic thinking will guide you to the path of success.
Creating social networking websites is getting easier each day. However, designing successful social networking websites has three major requirements:
1. Uniqueness
2. Lots of creativity
3. Lots of patience (time)
If a social networking website is designed based on these three aspects there is no doubt that the project will be a grand success. Here, in this article, you will find the necessity of the three main factors of social networking web design.
The need of Uniqueness
Everyone using the Internet will be aware of the fact that the Social Networking arena is overcrowded. Hence uniqueness of the social networking websites is very much essential to stand out from the crowd. To make your social networking website design unique, you will have to spend lots of time in analyzing the aspects of other popular social networking websites like Facebook, Myspace and Orkut. You have to offer the users of your social networking website with something different and useful that most of the other popular social networking websites do not offer. One of the reasons behind the popularity of facebook is the handful of useful applications. There is a cool application called “Compare me” which allows users to compare themselves with the peers. Providing such cool, interactive social networking applications in your own website will attract more people.
The need of Creativity
Creativity is very much essential for designing social networking websites. The above said uniqueness in social networking web design can be achieved only by vivid creativity. So where does the creativity come from? Creativity comes as a result of extensive research. With lots of social networking websites out there, learning what to do with your social networking website is very easy.
The need of time
Both the above said aspects involved in designing social networking websites depend upon time. The more the time you spend in designing your social networking website, the more will be the success of the same. Researching what the competitor social networking websites are offering and coming up with creative ideas to make your social networking website look unique will eat up much of your time.
Bottom line
If you lack anyone of these there aspects of social networking website design, it’s better to get some professional help rather than do it by yourself. There are many professional social networking web designers with hands on experience in the same. All you have to do is to express you requirement and they will take care of everything- from planning to effective social networking web designing. There are some unique social networking web design companies who offer promotion of your website along with designing. These Social networking web design services offered by the experts with strategic thinking will guide you to the path of success.
If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!
Join Free Online Social Network of Dimdix for Video Sharing
Vikram Kumar asked:
It is a universal fact that for a healthy living social interaction is very important. It is very important to communicate and get in touch with various people to share feelings, emotions and sentiments.
But in today’s world there is no time for the people to sit and laugh together. It is a bitter truth that today to avail success in a short time people stay ready to work for 20 hrs., but unable to give even a single hour to their beloved ones.
This is the reason why now-a-days the worth of social network cannot be overlooked. After understanding the real importance of social interaction, these days several types of facilities are offered by numerous sites available on the internet. Free online Social network is one such kind of facility. With the help of this social tool you can easily get connected with different people and places around you.
This is a kind of online facility with the help of which those people can really get relief who due to their busy and hectic schedule fail to interact and chat with friends, relatives and beloved ones.
With the facility of online social networking there is no question about the wastage of time and money. It is proficient enough to connect you to any of the desired person in an instant fashion. The best part of online social networking is that most of the sites provide it for free. There are no limitations of time and you can interact anytime you feel yourself free from work.
There are few of the sites available on the internet that also offers that facility of video sharing along with other attractive services. In most of the cases, if you are going for the free online social network then you cannot anticipate outstanding services from your concerned social network providing site. If your site is offering video sharing facility along with it then chances are quite high that you will be offered inferior quality services.
Certainly, there are not many sites available that prefer to offer exclusive services without sacrificing the quality. They prefer to generate more traffic and revenue by leaving loophole of one kind or the other. But there are some of the sites available on internet with a different kind of approach. Believe it or not! But they prefer to provide free online Social network along with best video sharing facility without compromising with the quality of services offered.
One such site available on the internet is Dimdix. There are some of the exclusive reasons associated with this site due to which the presence of this social networking site cannot be ignored.
I. Experienced: this is one of the main reason due to which most of the people prefer to go with Dimdix. Due to huge experience of the market it has the capability to understand the latest trends and requirements of the user in an instant fashion.
II. Goodwill: this site is maintaining a sound goodwill in the market. It doesn’t matter whether it is video sharing or any other kind of facility, it believes in offering full assistance to its user.
III. Quality of services: the free online social network offered by Dimdix is of unique quality. Video sharing is an incorporated part of this facility. Till now, a large number of users have already got benefited out of it and it’s your turn now!
It is a universal fact that for a healthy living social interaction is very important. It is very important to communicate and get in touch with various people to share feelings, emotions and sentiments.
But in today’s world there is no time for the people to sit and laugh together. It is a bitter truth that today to avail success in a short time people stay ready to work for 20 hrs., but unable to give even a single hour to their beloved ones.
This is the reason why now-a-days the worth of social network cannot be overlooked. After understanding the real importance of social interaction, these days several types of facilities are offered by numerous sites available on the internet. Free online Social network is one such kind of facility. With the help of this social tool you can easily get connected with different people and places around you.
This is a kind of online facility with the help of which those people can really get relief who due to their busy and hectic schedule fail to interact and chat with friends, relatives and beloved ones.
With the facility of online social networking there is no question about the wastage of time and money. It is proficient enough to connect you to any of the desired person in an instant fashion. The best part of online social networking is that most of the sites provide it for free. There are no limitations of time and you can interact anytime you feel yourself free from work.
There are few of the sites available on the internet that also offers that facility of video sharing along with other attractive services. In most of the cases, if you are going for the free online social network then you cannot anticipate outstanding services from your concerned social network providing site. If your site is offering video sharing facility along with it then chances are quite high that you will be offered inferior quality services.
Certainly, there are not many sites available that prefer to offer exclusive services without sacrificing the quality. They prefer to generate more traffic and revenue by leaving loophole of one kind or the other. But there are some of the sites available on internet with a different kind of approach. Believe it or not! But they prefer to provide free online Social network along with best video sharing facility without compromising with the quality of services offered.
One such site available on the internet is Dimdix. There are some of the exclusive reasons associated with this site due to which the presence of this social networking site cannot be ignored.
I. Experienced: this is one of the main reason due to which most of the people prefer to go with Dimdix. Due to huge experience of the market it has the capability to understand the latest trends and requirements of the user in an instant fashion.
II. Goodwill: this site is maintaining a sound goodwill in the market. It doesn’t matter whether it is video sharing or any other kind of facility, it believes in offering full assistance to its user.
III. Quality of services: the free online social network offered by Dimdix is of unique quality. Video sharing is an incorporated part of this facility. Till now, a large number of users have already got benefited out of it and it’s your turn now!
If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!
Making the Most Out of Social Networking Websites!
Karl Glantschnig asked:
Do you belong to an online social networking website? With their recent rise in popularity there is a good chance that you do. However, it is one thing to be a community member and another to actually participate in online discussions, as well as the many other network features. That is why it is advised that you learn how to make the most out of your social networking experience.
Many internet users already think that they know everything that they need to know about their social networking community. Unfortunately, not everyone does. In fact, you can find numerous posts online of people ranting or stating that they wished that their social networking website, such as Yahoo! 360, MySpace, Orkut, FriendWise, or FriendFinder, has a particular service and feature. Too many times, those posters did not look before they started speaking because, as it turns out, many social networking websites have what people want, just everyone does not know about it.
The first step, in making the most out of your social networking experience, is to familiarize yourself to the online community or communities that you belong to. This can easily be done by closely examining the website. There are too many internet users who are focused on meeting new friends that they get started right away. While it is nice to start meeting new people right away, it is also nice to know what your social networking site has to offer. This can only be done by closely examining the website. Whether you take one hour or one day examining the website, you will likely be pleased with your decision to do it.
When examining the website of the online community that you belong to, it is advised that you examine the terms of use agreement. This agreement often outlines what you can and cannot do online. Despite the fact that a large number of online networking sites, such as MySpace, have little rules, there are other websites that have them. These rules and restrictions may limit the content that you can have on your site, as well as your pictures, videos, and other media. Many websites, including social networking websites, will terminate your membership if you are found violating these agreements. By reading all of the rules and restrictions of the social networking website you belong to, you should be able to ensure that you can continue to use and enjoy the site.
One of the many benefits to fully examining the social network you belong to is that you could be alerted to network benefits, features, or services that you were previously unaware of. In addition to giving you your own profile page and allowing you to invite other internet users into your network, there are a number of other things that you can do with online social networking websites. A large number of websites have created features and sections that include horoscopes, quizzes, polls, instant massaging, chat rooms, and much more. However, before you make use of these member benefits, you must know that they exist.
If you are interested in making new online friends, it is likely that you have already joined an online social networking community. Whether you are interested in joining more or you are a first time user, you will to carefully choose your networks. By researching each social networking website online, you should easily be able to famialrize yourself with the advantages and disadvantages of each. And, since most social networking websites are free to use, there are no risks associated with giving the network a try. If you happen to come across a website that requires a paid membership and you would like to try it, you are advised to lookout for free membership plans or free trail periods. They may be able to help you determine whether or not the social networking website that you are interested in joining is worth the cost.
As you can easily see, there are a number of different ways to go about making the most out of your social networking experience. The control is in your hands. It is your decision as to whether or not you want to spend a small amount of time researching your network and everything that it has to offer. However, it is important to note that not doing so may literally mean that you are missing out on all of the fun.
Do you belong to an online social networking website? With their recent rise in popularity there is a good chance that you do. However, it is one thing to be a community member and another to actually participate in online discussions, as well as the many other network features. That is why it is advised that you learn how to make the most out of your social networking experience.
Many internet users already think that they know everything that they need to know about their social networking community. Unfortunately, not everyone does. In fact, you can find numerous posts online of people ranting or stating that they wished that their social networking website, such as Yahoo! 360, MySpace, Orkut, FriendWise, or FriendFinder, has a particular service and feature. Too many times, those posters did not look before they started speaking because, as it turns out, many social networking websites have what people want, just everyone does not know about it.
The first step, in making the most out of your social networking experience, is to familiarize yourself to the online community or communities that you belong to. This can easily be done by closely examining the website. There are too many internet users who are focused on meeting new friends that they get started right away. While it is nice to start meeting new people right away, it is also nice to know what your social networking site has to offer. This can only be done by closely examining the website. Whether you take one hour or one day examining the website, you will likely be pleased with your decision to do it.
When examining the website of the online community that you belong to, it is advised that you examine the terms of use agreement. This agreement often outlines what you can and cannot do online. Despite the fact that a large number of online networking sites, such as MySpace, have little rules, there are other websites that have them. These rules and restrictions may limit the content that you can have on your site, as well as your pictures, videos, and other media. Many websites, including social networking websites, will terminate your membership if you are found violating these agreements. By reading all of the rules and restrictions of the social networking website you belong to, you should be able to ensure that you can continue to use and enjoy the site.
One of the many benefits to fully examining the social network you belong to is that you could be alerted to network benefits, features, or services that you were previously unaware of. In addition to giving you your own profile page and allowing you to invite other internet users into your network, there are a number of other things that you can do with online social networking websites. A large number of websites have created features and sections that include horoscopes, quizzes, polls, instant massaging, chat rooms, and much more. However, before you make use of these member benefits, you must know that they exist.
If you are interested in making new online friends, it is likely that you have already joined an online social networking community. Whether you are interested in joining more or you are a first time user, you will to carefully choose your networks. By researching each social networking website online, you should easily be able to famialrize yourself with the advantages and disadvantages of each. And, since most social networking websites are free to use, there are no risks associated with giving the network a try. If you happen to come across a website that requires a paid membership and you would like to try it, you are advised to lookout for free membership plans or free trail periods. They may be able to help you determine whether or not the social networking website that you are interested in joining is worth the cost.
As you can easily see, there are a number of different ways to go about making the most out of your social networking experience. The control is in your hands. It is your decision as to whether or not you want to spend a small amount of time researching your network and everything that it has to offer. However, it is important to note that not doing so may literally mean that you are missing out on all of the fun.
If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!
Top 10 Tips For Promoting Your Business Through Social Networks
Naz Daud asked:
Nowadays, many businesses are reaping the fruits of the internet, especially with the advertising opportunities that the internet offers. One of the ways to advertise or promote businesses is through the emerging online social networks.
You may not notice but quite a few businesses nowadays are advertising through several social networks such as MySpace, Facebook, Friendster, LinkedIn, Hi5, and Tagged among many similar sites. Some may be cynical or disbelieving when it comes to making use of social networking sites to promote their businesses, but that is only because they are not truly acquainted with the potential that these sites have.
If you need persuasion, think about the many people accessing such social networking sites on not only daily, but also on an hour to hour and even minute to minute basis. Imagine a stronger web presence for your business. Most competitors have already joined the trend so why don’t you join in the fun? You’ll have more potential clients and you’ll build more credibility.
Perhaps you might think that advertising on a social site may not be a good image for your business. Some social networking sites are mainly patronized by teenagers, so if your business is not something for the kids, then it might not be of much benefit for you to do so. However, word of mouth is still such a powerful tool to market and promote a business.
A teenager telling his or her mom or dad about what they saw in the Internet is just an example. This is the beginnings of the very powerful word of mouth marketing, and many buzzes now start on social networking sites. Here are ten tips that will help you in promoting your business through such social networks.
1. Try out several social networking sites.
To start with, don’t just focus on just one or two social networking websites. Begin with as many as possible: the opposite of what you might expect to do, but try it. It works with these sites. You can post a photograph of yourself, digital photographs of your company and of your products if you have them, or of your company logo. Write some blogs, make some quizzes or engage in activities until you get noticed.
After you’ve built your presence in multiple networking sites, it’s time to focus on one or two sites that generate positive results. By now you should have seen how people react to it and you’ll know which social networking websites are the most effective for you.
2. Share the company’s public profile.
Lay out your business expertise. Clearly state your credentials. At the same time, make sure that your profile is as attractive as possible. It has to be something that will catch other social networkers’ attention. Also, make sure that your profile is keyword-rich for people using the advanced search features.
3. Make use of applications and widgets.
Most of the social networking websites you’ll see now have their own widgets and applications. Some of these widgets were made for businesses. They have a business page or “About” page made specifically for companies. Make particular use of the Fan page, the News page, and the Events page.
4. Comment on posts or blogs online.
One way to maximize the opportunity of your web presence is by commenting or replying to posts, articles, and blogs you see online. You can leave your signature (with links to your website) after your username. This will help you get noticed even more.
5. Join forums or groups.
When you join forums, you get to engage with other like minded individuals and share your ideas with other people. Then hopefully, they might notice your expertise and may even ask for details of your products or services before you have to offer them.
6. Seek help from expert social networkers.
Social networking is just like traditional networking. The internet just made it easier. So if you want more networkers to notice you ask for help from the experts and find out how best to use this medium. Ask and answers will be forthcoming.
7. Select your friends.
Since you’re creating an account for your business, your friends will matter. Make sure that all your friends are legitimate, trust-worthy, and credible. It doesn’t matter if you only have a few friends. The quality of friends you add to your account is what matters most.
8. Write recommendations for valued clients.
Your clients don’t need to tell you to write them a recommendation. If you feel they are valuable, then recommend them. Not only are you being more credible to your readers by providing genuine information, your clients will be happy and may do the same for you.
9. Promote your blog or online resources.
Blogging or writing articles and providing resources to your readers or clients have proven to be an effective way to drive traffic to your website. So if you have a blog, make sure that you promote it through these networking sites.
10. Use privacy settings.
In order to avoid scam artists and identity theft, make sure that you adjust the privacy settings that can be found in social networking sites. Check what information can be seen by the public and by your friends and adjust accordingly.
Why not start to use social networking sites to the greatest advantage for your online business? Most traditional businesses have no idea how to use this new medium, and if you do then you can have a good and profitable lead on your competitors.
Nowadays, many businesses are reaping the fruits of the internet, especially with the advertising opportunities that the internet offers. One of the ways to advertise or promote businesses is through the emerging online social networks.
You may not notice but quite a few businesses nowadays are advertising through several social networks such as MySpace, Facebook, Friendster, LinkedIn, Hi5, and Tagged among many similar sites. Some may be cynical or disbelieving when it comes to making use of social networking sites to promote their businesses, but that is only because they are not truly acquainted with the potential that these sites have.
If you need persuasion, think about the many people accessing such social networking sites on not only daily, but also on an hour to hour and even minute to minute basis. Imagine a stronger web presence for your business. Most competitors have already joined the trend so why don’t you join in the fun? You’ll have more potential clients and you’ll build more credibility.
Perhaps you might think that advertising on a social site may not be a good image for your business. Some social networking sites are mainly patronized by teenagers, so if your business is not something for the kids, then it might not be of much benefit for you to do so. However, word of mouth is still such a powerful tool to market and promote a business.
A teenager telling his or her mom or dad about what they saw in the Internet is just an example. This is the beginnings of the very powerful word of mouth marketing, and many buzzes now start on social networking sites. Here are ten tips that will help you in promoting your business through such social networks.
1. Try out several social networking sites.
To start with, don’t just focus on just one or two social networking websites. Begin with as many as possible: the opposite of what you might expect to do, but try it. It works with these sites. You can post a photograph of yourself, digital photographs of your company and of your products if you have them, or of your company logo. Write some blogs, make some quizzes or engage in activities until you get noticed.
After you’ve built your presence in multiple networking sites, it’s time to focus on one or two sites that generate positive results. By now you should have seen how people react to it and you’ll know which social networking websites are the most effective for you.
2. Share the company’s public profile.
Lay out your business expertise. Clearly state your credentials. At the same time, make sure that your profile is as attractive as possible. It has to be something that will catch other social networkers’ attention. Also, make sure that your profile is keyword-rich for people using the advanced search features.
3. Make use of applications and widgets.
Most of the social networking websites you’ll see now have their own widgets and applications. Some of these widgets were made for businesses. They have a business page or “About” page made specifically for companies. Make particular use of the Fan page, the News page, and the Events page.
4. Comment on posts or blogs online.
One way to maximize the opportunity of your web presence is by commenting or replying to posts, articles, and blogs you see online. You can leave your signature (with links to your website) after your username. This will help you get noticed even more.
5. Join forums or groups.
When you join forums, you get to engage with other like minded individuals and share your ideas with other people. Then hopefully, they might notice your expertise and may even ask for details of your products or services before you have to offer them.
6. Seek help from expert social networkers.
Social networking is just like traditional networking. The internet just made it easier. So if you want more networkers to notice you ask for help from the experts and find out how best to use this medium. Ask and answers will be forthcoming.
7. Select your friends.
Since you’re creating an account for your business, your friends will matter. Make sure that all your friends are legitimate, trust-worthy, and credible. It doesn’t matter if you only have a few friends. The quality of friends you add to your account is what matters most.
8. Write recommendations for valued clients.
Your clients don’t need to tell you to write them a recommendation. If you feel they are valuable, then recommend them. Not only are you being more credible to your readers by providing genuine information, your clients will be happy and may do the same for you.
9. Promote your blog or online resources.
Blogging or writing articles and providing resources to your readers or clients have proven to be an effective way to drive traffic to your website. So if you have a blog, make sure that you promote it through these networking sites.
10. Use privacy settings.
In order to avoid scam artists and identity theft, make sure that you adjust the privacy settings that can be found in social networking sites. Check what information can be seen by the public and by your friends and adjust accordingly.
Why not start to use social networking sites to the greatest advantage for your online business? Most traditional businesses have no idea how to use this new medium, and if you do then you can have a good and profitable lead on your competitors.
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Social Networking Site Long Haired Singles
Zora asked:
ok at social networking sites like Myspace and Hi5.com, you’ll notice a big trend with the obsession of long haired men or long haired women social clubs/groups. Sometimes these clubs/groups are dedicated to 80’s rock hair, or emo hair styles for men. Many of these clubs/groups have thousands of users, and many of which are seeking a date with one of the long haired members. But now there is a social networking dating site that is geared towards single long haired men and long haired women: LongHairedSingles.com.
With LongHairedSingles.com you’ll see the usual social networking features like on Hi5 or Myspace such as creating a user profile, blogs, arcade, photo gallery, chat room, email, classifieds, instant messenger, rate photos and groups. LongHairedSingles.com also has additional features such as being able to take and create pools, plus take and make quizzes. You can even send gifts and crush alerts to your secret admirer.
When users use the Long Haired Singles features, they will earn points and be able to buy and give gifts to other users.
The first steps a user should do when they sign up with the Long Haired Singles website:
1. Add a photo. Add one main photo and at least one photo that goes into the gallery. The user photo will not only go into there gallery but the websites gallery. When that happens, everyone who visits the Long Haired Singles gallery will be able to view the users photo, and thus, more exposure for them. Adding a photo also gives the user activity points.
To add a photo to the gallery, go to: Submit Items, Upload Picture. Add an image title, tags, and choose the right category. Upload Picture and refresh browser.
How to add a main photo: Go to Profile Image, and click on Change Picture. Upload your image and refresh your browser.
If you don’t have an image yet but still want some sort of image on your profile, you can go to clipart.com or photobucket.com. You can find fun free gif images that are royalty-free to use.
2. Familiarize yourself with the web sites navigation menu:
When your in the section My Account, go to settings. There you can change your password, e-mail and other account information. The section Profile Settings, allows the user to change what is said on there profile. And along with being able to change your picture, you can also change your pages background layout. Search the Internet for free social network backgrounds, like myspace layouts, or free photobucket.com pictures.
3. Now that you have your profile and images set, seek out new friends and potential mates! Go to the browse section and single out the perfect long haired lover for you.
4. To quickly get responses send free emails, add comments and send crush alerts to all the cuties. When your adding a comment, add cute graphics like the ones you can find on any glitter graphics site.
5. Now that your a member of the Long Haired Singles Community, become a regular. New people sign up everyday, and every time you sign up, you’ll be on the front of site.
Use these tips wisely and you’ll have friends and potential long haired mates in no time.
Make sure to tell your friends about the LongHairedSingles.com web site and invite them.
ok at social networking sites like Myspace and Hi5.com, you’ll notice a big trend with the obsession of long haired men or long haired women social clubs/groups. Sometimes these clubs/groups are dedicated to 80’s rock hair, or emo hair styles for men. Many of these clubs/groups have thousands of users, and many of which are seeking a date with one of the long haired members. But now there is a social networking dating site that is geared towards single long haired men and long haired women: LongHairedSingles.com.
With LongHairedSingles.com you’ll see the usual social networking features like on Hi5 or Myspace such as creating a user profile, blogs, arcade, photo gallery, chat room, email, classifieds, instant messenger, rate photos and groups. LongHairedSingles.com also has additional features such as being able to take and create pools, plus take and make quizzes. You can even send gifts and crush alerts to your secret admirer.
When users use the Long Haired Singles features, they will earn points and be able to buy and give gifts to other users.
The first steps a user should do when they sign up with the Long Haired Singles website:
1. Add a photo. Add one main photo and at least one photo that goes into the gallery. The user photo will not only go into there gallery but the websites gallery. When that happens, everyone who visits the Long Haired Singles gallery will be able to view the users photo, and thus, more exposure for them. Adding a photo also gives the user activity points.
To add a photo to the gallery, go to: Submit Items, Upload Picture. Add an image title, tags, and choose the right category. Upload Picture and refresh browser.
How to add a main photo: Go to Profile Image, and click on Change Picture. Upload your image and refresh your browser.
If you don’t have an image yet but still want some sort of image on your profile, you can go to clipart.com or photobucket.com. You can find fun free gif images that are royalty-free to use.
2. Familiarize yourself with the web sites navigation menu:
When your in the section My Account, go to settings. There you can change your password, e-mail and other account information. The section Profile Settings, allows the user to change what is said on there profile. And along with being able to change your picture, you can also change your pages background layout. Search the Internet for free social network backgrounds, like myspace layouts, or free photobucket.com pictures.
3. Now that you have your profile and images set, seek out new friends and potential mates! Go to the browse section and single out the perfect long haired lover for you.
4. To quickly get responses send free emails, add comments and send crush alerts to all the cuties. When your adding a comment, add cute graphics like the ones you can find on any glitter graphics site.
5. Now that your a member of the Long Haired Singles Community, become a regular. New people sign up everyday, and every time you sign up, you’ll be on the front of site.
Use these tips wisely and you’ll have friends and potential long haired mates in no time.
Make sure to tell your friends about the LongHairedSingles.com web site and invite them.
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When Young Professionals Relocate – How to Create a New Social Network
Nina Seidl asked:
The possibilities seem endless when moving to a new city, but so are the questions: where will you work, where will you live, and most of all – how do you start to create a new social network? Moving can be a complex and lonely experience as people try to manage the logistics, orient themselves with the layout of their new city, negotiate employment landmines and adjust to a new social reality.
As an ‘outsider’ it can be difficult to know how to begin to make friends. The office is an excellent starting point, but not everyone is fortunate enough to have a job offer immediately when they arrive in a new city.
Paramount Properties brings you some social networking suggestions to ease your transition to a new city.
Join a Gym
Good for the head, heart, body and soul, the gym also provides an easy environment in which to meet others. The camaraderie that comes from collectively punishing yourselves in an aerobic or weight-lifting class is unbeatable. Strike up a conversation with the person on the treadmill next you. See where it takes you.
Prominent Canadian gyms include Goodlife, YMCA, Florida Fitness, Gym Max and Curves.
Running Clubs
Although some runners prefer to conserve their air and don’t make great conversationalists, members of running clubs are usually very social when the run is done. Swap stories while basking your tired legs in an endorphin high. Running is also a great way to cover a lot of ground and explore a new city.
Book Clubs
If you’re a fan of literature, a book club is the perfect place to meet others who also like to lose themselves in a good novel. Take time out from your busy life as you momentarily escape from the “real world,” and then discuss the book and its themes with other people in the club. It doesn’t matter if you agree or disagree with the others about the true motives of the protagonist – the main thing is that you’re striking up conversations with new and interesting people. Another perk about book clubs is that you can sometimes get the chance to hear an author speak about his or her book. This can be very insightful and will give you and your new colleagues more to talk about.
Join a Sports Club
Hockey, basketball, softball, soccer, tennis, golf and ultimate frisbee leagues offer excellent opportunities to meet people, get fit, have a great time and even get out of town if your team participates in inter-city tournaments. Find a sport you’ve always wanted to play and get involved.
Theatre Clubs
Assuming another identity and putting yourself on stage in front of the whole world may seem risky, but the benefits you reap will be even greater. Theatre is a promising way to meet outgoing people. Also, once you have mastered performing to a crowd, social introductions or job interviews will be a breeze!
However, if stepping into the spotlight is the last thing you would ever do, you can still enjoy the theatre experience as a member of the audience. Theatre/social clubs often have access to discounted tickets, and members will usually meet up after the show for food, drinks and a hearty discussion about what you just saw.
Volunteer for Charity
Help others and help yourself at the same time. United Way and Red Cross are two large and deserving causes. Local food banks are another place where you can see up front how your contribution makes a difference to the lives of struggling families.
Connect with Cultural and Religious Organizations
Most Canadian cities have strong Chinese, Greek, Jewish, Muslim, Italian, German, Hindu and ex-pat communities that host special festivals and events. Familiarity breeds comfortability, so seek out those common ties and make yourself known.
Coffee Shops and Pubs
You never know who you’ll meet during Happy Hour or at your local Starbucks, Bridgehead or Second Cup … give it a try and see what happens!
Good friendships take time, but the more you get involved in your community, the more at home you’ll feel and the more stories you’ll have to share. By the time you’ve made your way through this list, you’ll be a professional ice breaker. Good luck!
The possibilities seem endless when moving to a new city, but so are the questions: where will you work, where will you live, and most of all – how do you start to create a new social network? Moving can be a complex and lonely experience as people try to manage the logistics, orient themselves with the layout of their new city, negotiate employment landmines and adjust to a new social reality.
As an ‘outsider’ it can be difficult to know how to begin to make friends. The office is an excellent starting point, but not everyone is fortunate enough to have a job offer immediately when they arrive in a new city.
Paramount Properties brings you some social networking suggestions to ease your transition to a new city.
Join a Gym
Good for the head, heart, body and soul, the gym also provides an easy environment in which to meet others. The camaraderie that comes from collectively punishing yourselves in an aerobic or weight-lifting class is unbeatable. Strike up a conversation with the person on the treadmill next you. See where it takes you.
Prominent Canadian gyms include Goodlife, YMCA, Florida Fitness, Gym Max and Curves.
Running Clubs
Although some runners prefer to conserve their air and don’t make great conversationalists, members of running clubs are usually very social when the run is done. Swap stories while basking your tired legs in an endorphin high. Running is also a great way to cover a lot of ground and explore a new city.
Book Clubs
If you’re a fan of literature, a book club is the perfect place to meet others who also like to lose themselves in a good novel. Take time out from your busy life as you momentarily escape from the “real world,” and then discuss the book and its themes with other people in the club. It doesn’t matter if you agree or disagree with the others about the true motives of the protagonist – the main thing is that you’re striking up conversations with new and interesting people. Another perk about book clubs is that you can sometimes get the chance to hear an author speak about his or her book. This can be very insightful and will give you and your new colleagues more to talk about.
Join a Sports Club
Hockey, basketball, softball, soccer, tennis, golf and ultimate frisbee leagues offer excellent opportunities to meet people, get fit, have a great time and even get out of town if your team participates in inter-city tournaments. Find a sport you’ve always wanted to play and get involved.
Theatre Clubs
Assuming another identity and putting yourself on stage in front of the whole world may seem risky, but the benefits you reap will be even greater. Theatre is a promising way to meet outgoing people. Also, once you have mastered performing to a crowd, social introductions or job interviews will be a breeze!
However, if stepping into the spotlight is the last thing you would ever do, you can still enjoy the theatre experience as a member of the audience. Theatre/social clubs often have access to discounted tickets, and members will usually meet up after the show for food, drinks and a hearty discussion about what you just saw.
Volunteer for Charity
Help others and help yourself at the same time. United Way and Red Cross are two large and deserving causes. Local food banks are another place where you can see up front how your contribution makes a difference to the lives of struggling families.
Connect with Cultural and Religious Organizations
Most Canadian cities have strong Chinese, Greek, Jewish, Muslim, Italian, German, Hindu and ex-pat communities that host special festivals and events. Familiarity breeds comfortability, so seek out those common ties and make yourself known.
Coffee Shops and Pubs
You never know who you’ll meet during Happy Hour or at your local Starbucks, Bridgehead or Second Cup … give it a try and see what happens!
Good friendships take time, but the more you get involved in your community, the more at home you’ll feel and the more stories you’ll have to share. By the time you’ve made your way through this list, you’ll be a professional ice breaker. Good luck!
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