Social Networking

Perhaps you've heard of Myspace, Facebook, Xanga, Bebo and Mylot. Social communites that allow you to meet people from around the world with similar interests, join in discussions, and partake in a new type of exchange. A connection that can introduce you to many new friends as well as a great way to keep ties with old friends and family across the world.

Social networking has become explosive in recent years. As a freelance writer trying to earn a buck, these sites have become necessary tools of the trade. Most are free accounts. All have their pros and cons. You could even say these sites have begun a social revolution. Massive exposure and a huge opportunity to raise your visibility are only the tip of the iceberg.

But with great rewards, lies great responsibility. Here is a list of some of the pros and cons of joining a social networking website.

PROS

1. Communication at the touch of a keyboard ~ The convenience of staying at home during times of sleet, wind, and demonic gas prices. Have you noticed that interacting socially and privately doesn't have to be an oxymoron? Where else can you chat with hundreds of people and remain comfortably dressed in pj's?

2. It's a small world ~ Feel like dishing the latest gossip with someone in Tanzania? How about sharing a recipe from an Italian stud in Sicily? All very possible now with the click of a mouse.

3. That Mutual Connection ~ For the insanely organized. It's now become a viable alternative to sort through tons of profiles in order to get to that unique soul mate that loves scuba diving, shares the same allergies and maybe has the same fondness for vintage clothing. Breaking the ice and bringing people together that share common ground is half the battle.

4. The Business Shmorgasboard ~ Connecting on a business level, learning about new job openings, the comings and goings of department heads, sharing salary tidbits and learning how to succeed from every avenue from a business angle.

5. Referrals for the Picking ~ Growing and adding to your personal, as well as business network, can expotentially lead you to greener pastures.

6. You are Seen and Heard ~ Increased visibility. Having your name seen by thousands of people can help build your reputation faster than anything else currently possible. Works as well for the novice writer who's creative talent is exceptionally unique, to the seasoned veteran who needs a midstream kickstart.

7. Door Number 3 Please ~ The doors that are opened because of Social Networking are more diverse than ever before. When your horizons are broadened and you are able to discuss dreams, goals and life. You are opened up to a vast array of possibilities. Ideas that you may not have previously imagined. The world becomes your oyster.

8. The A B C's ~ Education. With the wealth of information floating around on the net, social networking can also lead you to the right books, mentors and philosophies. Perhpas raising you to the upper eschelon of your chosen field. Inspiration can lead to enormous growth.

9. Dear Abby ~ Social Networking allows you to ask people from all over the world and various cultures advice about a multitude of problems. Nagging questions and personal opinions can be compared and challenged, ultimately giving you a birds eye view from an innocent bystanders perspective. To be able to get 20 opinions on the same subject can shed light from every imaginable angle.

10. Knowing Your Customer Base ~ Social Networks allows you as a seller to dissect the mind of a buyer. Valuable information that could have cost thousands.

CONS

1. Rampant Identity Theft ~ While social networking provides access to honest, fun-loving and like-minded good people, it also opens a window for the seedy, dangerous and less human members to infilitrate. Surveys, questionaires and basic fact sheets that are listed on each members site can lead to potential identity theft. Caution is called for in any new associations. Be careful before you choose to interact and think wisely before devulging any personal facts that you wouldn't want the general population to easily store for their own devious purpose.

2. Stalkers Unite ~ Many are using social networking to meet perspective dates and perhaps even more serious romances. If it doesn't work out, you might find your cyber-ex is a stalking pro. Move slower in giving out your number and setting meeting dates with your perfect stranger. Always meet in a public setting and preferably with a group of friends.

3. Cyber Bullying ~ People seem to get braver with displaying their anger issues online. A mob-mentality can quickly form when you have a bunch of bored psychopaths join togther for some internet mayhem. To avoid any serious confrontations, try to raise above moronic sea-level and squelch the fire immediately. If it takes alerting authorities of that specific network, then so be it. This is no time to play along.