To prevent social networking overload, you first have to know why you’re engaging in it at all and what it can do for you.  Secondly, you have to avail yourself of the top ones out there and narrow them down to actively participate in the two to three sites you’ll create a profile on, that best suit your needs.  Since this is both a life balance issue and a career and business development choice, I’m writing on this to share a few things I’ve learned:

1.  If you’re wondering if it’s worth it, it depends on your need to be in touch with others and build a “network” or community, make the right connections, and be productive with your time.  A recent article in Computer World said that “more than half of all adult Internet users in the United States either visit or maintain a profile on at least one social networking site.”  

2.  What kind of site should you join?  First, decide if you want to connect with others for personal or business needs.  If you want pure “social” networking – that is, an online community for fun and enjoyment then I’d advise that you look into sites like MySpace and Facebook.  MySpace tends to attract a creative crowd and often a younger crowd.  Facebook is both for pleasure and business by a wide-range of users.  For sheer fun it has lots of applications, games, etc. you can play with your friends there as well as upload favorite photos to share, a good way to stay in touch with computer savvy family and friends.  

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