Everyone knows that if you want to be successful online, you have to get into social marketing.  In fact, social networking is widely believed to be the key to making friends and key contacts online.

Over the past couple of years or so, online social networks have exploded in their popularity, largely because they allow you to find, connect with and develop friendships easily over the internet with other users who have the same interests, goals, beliefs etc, as you.  All you have to do is join a social networking site in your target niche area, and create a profile. 

And your social marketing profile is very important.  It is the first place that internet users go to when looking for new people to meet.  So what you put on it will help other users of the same social marketing site to find you.  Because of this, people can fill out lots of personal details and include a photo of themselves.  And this is good, because a photo encourages “brand awareness” and ensures that people recognise you as they surf from one social network site to another. 

However, a word of caution. 

Most social networks do not restrict who can see your profile online.  That is, literally anyone, can see your social networking profile on most social networking websites.  So be cautious when filling in your social network profile.  In fact you should focus on what you need to leave out, just as much as what to put in your social network profile.  This is one of the best ways to protect your safety online. 

If you choose to include your photo, be especially careful about how much other information you give.  After all, a photo of you combined with your full name, date of birth and address can be easy pickings for identity thieves.  Consider, making your last name private, and definitely tick the box to keep your date of birth private. 

In addition, be vague about your location.  A large number of online social networking sites require you to choose from a city list.  If it is allowed, consider choosing a wider region, such as your state or county only.  Or if you must choose a city, choose a large city nearby – it will certainly make it harder for internet predators to seek you out.

And if it still has to be said, do NOT post detailed information on your children, your exact address, photos of your home, personal financial details and when you will be leaving on vacation. 

Follow these tips and you should enjoy the benefits of social networks and stay safe online!

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