Not only will you have a ton of fun and make new friends but you have the opportunity to advertise for free. Advertising in a social network can be much more effective than other methods online because people tend to be more receptive to a familiar face.

To make good use of the capabilies the social networks can provide to your business, try to follow a few golden rules :

• Design a professional looking profile
  Most social networks give you the opportunity to design your profile page. You should think of your profile page as your calling card. Your objective is to create a professional and well designed image for you and your business. Your photo should be a nice head shot or you can use a company logo. Take the time to write a professional "about me" section. Share some information about your business and your experience.
  
  
• Use it to find customers directly
  You can use the idea of "birds of a feather flock together" to arrange the best social networking. If you are selling a new kind of bread, you will want to find social networks of food lovers.
  
  
• It goes back to the philosophy long held by offline business people. And that is: to make friends with your potential customers, gain their trust, and become an acquaintance, instead of a salesman.
  
  Also, people who continually try to sell you something, even during social engagements, appear to be desperate and/or greedy and self-centered. Being friendly and in the service of others, results in sales, eventually.

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