Social networking is just one component of what’s called Web 2.0, the next generation of websites and services that emphasize collaboration and connectivity. Although the experts continue to debate the exact definition of Web 2.0, one thing is certain: Social networking sites, blogs, and wikis are connecting the online world like never before. Web 2.0 has changed the way the world connects and communicates, and the evolution is continuing.

Social networking has generated a lot of buzz, media coverage, and conversation in the past few years. In spite of all this attention, however, many misconceptions remain. Social networking isn’t just for the young. It now reaches a large, mainstream audience. Many popular sites report than half their visitors are over age 35. It isn’t just for fun or pure socializing, either. Companies, organizations, and individuals around the world are profiting from their participation on popular social networks such as MySpace, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Social networking also isn’t just for the tech-savvy. Strategy counts far more than technical skill in developing a successful social networking campaign. In this book, you learn 50 “truths” about real-world social networking and how you, too, can profit from your social networking experience.

This book is written for anyone who wants to tap the power of social networking for professional reasons. Marketers, publicists, small business owners, independent professionals, job seekers, fundraisers, and activists all can find ways to profit from strategic social networking. It’s a viable business tool that opens up new ways to connect with others who can help you achieve your business goals. The goal of this book is to provide you with a solid foundation on the basics of social networking, give you some insight into future trends, and encourage you to think strategically about the best ways you can leverage the power of social networking to enhance your business, your cause, and your life.