Are you wondering who belongs to a social network? There are sites on the Internet for just about every type of person and every interest. From online dating sites to Christian fellowship or teen hangouts, there is a social network for everyone, each with its own rules. Keep reading to find out exactly who belongs to a social network and how you can find one that fits your life and interests!
Who Belongs To A Social Network?
One of the first questions people ask about social networks is what is a social network? Social networks are places where people with shared interests can come together and get to know one another on the Internet. Some, like Myspace and Facebook, have users fill out profiles with a large amount of optional information. Others, like Xanga or Livejournal, let users keep journals, but omit personal information if they'd like.
What Makes A Social Network
Social networks are created around similar interests or traits that people share. As a result, almost anyone can be a part of a social network. Some common types of social networks include:
- Websites to make or keep friends
- Dating websites
- Religious beliefs
- Work related networking
- Networks for teens
- Networks to keep track of others
- Parenting
Within each social network, there are even further ways that anyone can take part. For example, on Facebook, a user can become involved in groups that connect them to other users who like similar things -from fans of Ron Howard to people who wear flip flops. There's a social network for everyone!
Social Networks For Everyone
If you're interested in social networking but you're not sure where to get your feet wet, here are some great ways to get involved.
Making Friends
One of the most popular types of social networks are sites where you can make friends. Often, people use these types of sites to reconnect, or keep in contact, with old friends too. You can fill out optional profile information (such as favorite music, movies, books, etc.) and usually post as many pictures as you like. Examples of these types of sites are:
- Myspace
- Friendster
- tribe.net
- Classmate.com
- Orkut
Dating Websites
While some people use social networking to make friends, others use the Internet to find a date. Many online dating sites do allow users to find dates and the like but they also give users a chance to speak to people worldwide. Like friend-making sites, users can create profiles and post pictures. However, if you'd like to use dating sites to make friends, be sure to make that clear. Some examples of these type of sites are:
- Okcupid
- EHarmony
- Match.com
- Chemistry.com
Religious Beliefs
Another popular networking site are sites that center on religious beliefs. The main purpose of many of these websites is to provide users with both fellowship and friendship. You can post profiles and also share a prayer at the same time. For Christian websites of this nature, you can even start a prayer chain. Some sites are exclusive, while others allow users of all faiths. Some sites are:
- Muslimsocial.com
- Shmooze.com
- Xianz
- Mychurch.com
Work Related Networking
Looking to find a job--or perhaps hire someone? Social networking has a few sites for you! On social networks dedicated to employer and employee relations, uses can create a profile of their professional life (similar to a resume) and connect with other people in their field. On some sites, users can refer users for jobs and assignments. Popular sites include LinkedIn and Ryze.
Keeping Track of Others
In the world of the Internet, it seems everyone is only an arms length away. Social networking encourages this. Sites like Twitter and Notemine.com allow users to post what they're doing at any given moment. Friends can also keep track of one another on mobile devices - allowing users to stay connected away from the computer!
Other Social Networks
Still haven't found the social network for you? Here are a few more ideas:
- Etsy.com and Ravelry.com are sites dedicated to arts and crafts for sale and knitting projects.
- Anglingmaster.com is one of the premier sites for fishers.
- Tradeking.com is for investors interests.
- Storymash.com is a site for writers.
- Sermo.com is a place where doctors can get together.
- Myfolia.com is the place to be if you're interested in gardening.
- Voicegreen.com is for environmentally aware people to get together and help the planet.
