What Is Social Networking?
Social Networking. . . It's the way the 21st century communicates today. Want to know what it really means?
Social
networking is the grouping of individuals into specific groups, like
small rural communities or a neighborhood subdivision, if you will.
Although social networking is possible in person, especially in the
workplace, universities, and high schools, it is most popular online.
This
is because unlike most high schools, colleges, or workplaces, the
internet is filled with millions of individuals who are looking to
meet other people, to gather and share first-hand information and
experiences about cooking, golfing, gardening, developing friendships
professional alliances, finding employment, business-to-business
marketing and even groups sharing information about baking cookies to
the Thrive Movement. The topics and interests are as varied and rich
as the story of our universe.
When
it comes to online social networking, websites are commonly used.
These websites are known as social sites. Social networking websites
function like an online community of internet users. Depending on the
website in question, many of these online community members share
common interests in hobbies, religion, politics and alternative
lifestyles. Once you are granted access to a social networking
website you can begin to socialize. This socialization may include
reading the profile pages of other members and possibly even
contacting them.
The
friends that you can make are just one of the many benefits to
social networking online. Another one of those benefits includes
diversity because the internet gives individuals from all around the
world access to social networking sites. This means that although you
are in the United States, you could develop an online friendship with
someone in Denmark or India. Not only will you make new friends, but
you just might learn a thing or two about new cultures or new
languages and learning is always a good thing.
As
mentioned, social networking often involves grouping specific
individuals or organizations together. While there are a number of
social networking websites that focus on particular interests, there
are others that do not. The websites without a main focus are often
referred to as "traditional" social networking websites and
usually have open memberships. This means that anyone can become a
member, no matter what their hobbies, beliefs, or views are. However,
once you are inside this online community, you can begin to create
your own network of friends and eliminate members that do not share
common interests or goals.
As
I'm sure you're aware, there are dangers associated with social
networking including data theft and viruses, which are on the rise.
The most prevalent danger though often involves online predators or
individuals who claim to be someone that they are not. Although
danger does exist with networking online, it also exists in the real
world, too. Just like you're advised when meeting strangers at clubs
and bars, school, or work -- you are also advised to proceed with
caution online.
By
being aware of your cyber-surroundings and who you are talking to,
you should be able to safely enjoy social networking online. It will
take many phone conversations to get to know someone, but you really
won't be able to make a clear judgment until you can meet each other
in person. Just use common sense and listen to your inner voice; it
will tell you when something doesn't feel right about the online
conversations taking place.
Once
you are well informed and comfortable with your findings, you can
begin your search from hundreds of networking communities to join.
This can easily be done by performing a standard internet search.
Your search will likely return a number of results, including
MySpace, FriendWise, FriendFinder, Yahoo! 360, Facebook, Orkut, and
Classmates.
