A Newbie's Guide to Online Friendships

Friendship in the virtual world doesn't have to be a scary thing. Unfortunately, the online world has gotten a bad rap with the threat of phishing, identity theft, and scam artists. This causes many people to avoid the internet at all costs in fear of meeting the wrong individual and thus, creating havoc in their lives. Newbies often enter the online scene apprehensive, overwhelmed, and perhaps intimidated.

Those of us who have been around the net a little longer have come to appreciate the friendships one can find online. It takes some practice, knowledge, instinct and caution, but it is very possible to find long lasting connection with others across the globe. It's an exciting idea to think that the world is literally at our fingertips in a few short seconds. So how can we utilize the power of people online to create relationships with others who share our interests? Well, it begins by first knowing where to look.

Tip #1:

If a newbie's goal is to understand the internet a little more, they'll first need an email address. I recommend Yahoo! since a Yahoo! id is versatile and can work for so many functions. So tip #1: get a Yahoo! account at: http://www.yahoo.com

(Y! is short for Yahoo!)

Tip #2:

Do a search at Yahoo! Groups http://groups.yahoo.com/ for topics that are of interest to you. Chances are, if you are into something, Y! Groups has a group for that! Some suggestions to type in the search field are: cooking, local city name, poodles, education or parenting. You will be guided to a list of results where you can view the amount of members in the group, the description of the group, and how active it is. If you are a newbie, I suggest staying in groups that are under 100 members but still are active. Another way you can find some interesting groups is looking under the categories on the Y! group home page. When you have selected the group that most interests you, click on it, then apply. Some you may need permission to enter, but others will allow you to join instantly after entering your handy Y! id. Be sure to choose "daily digest" when you sign up to reduce the number of emails you receive in your email inbox.

Tip #3:

When you start getting into the groove of being involved with online groups or find that Y! groups is not for you, then it's time to look at forums for a source of fun, friendship and chatting. There are billions of forums on the internet, so you'll have to find one, like you did for Y! groups, that fits your interests. For example:

Do you have a strange schedule which makes your hours of availability for chatting pretty random and maybe late at night or early in the morning? Then you might benefit from a 24 hour forum that specializes in everyone's interests and schedules. Try http://www.24hourforum.com to chat with individuals online at various hours like yourself.

Do you have a knack for baking and would like to exchange recipes with others who enjoy baking as well? Try http://foodieforums.com/vbulletin/index.php for a variety of ideas that will keep you baking in the kitchen for family all year long! Not only can you find delicious recipes, but the forums give you an opportunity to have open dialogue with other cooks around the world.

Your options are limitless and you'll be amazed at all the forums out there that specialize in whatever peaks your interest. If you can't find a forum by adding .com at the end of your topic of interest: ie cooking.com or puppies.com, then do a search for one at google.com or yahoo.com.

Tip#3:

You don't have to throw yourself in the conversations. Sit back for a bit, observe how things work and when you feel comfortable, post something. Don't feel intimidated if you are new to the scene while everyone else seems like an expert. I think you'll find that a lot of people online really are helpful on helping you learn the tools of the groups or forums. If you're confused about something, just ask. Everyone, at one time or another, has been in your position and knows what it's like. More often than not, they'll be willing to show you the way or give you some tips themselves.

Tip #4:

Most newbies are fearful enough to not give out personal information. Certain information can be safe, but if you are new to the online world, you should avoid giving out any personal info all together. If later down the line, when you get more accustomed to the world wide web, you'll learn what sites you can trust, and which ones you should be very cautious of. For example, PayPal is a trusted site but someone asking you in a private message for your social security is not. Don't worry, you'll get the hang of it, eventually. Remember, the best way to make friendships online is to reach out for help when you need it. People want to help others, it makes us feel good. So enjoy your time on the web and make the best of it.