When you hear the term social networks, what do you think of? Because of the word “media,” many people think of “news media” or “social news.” This is understandable since that word has always been tied to the news. And believe me, you are not alone. This is due to the fact that social news IS social media, but there are many other ways as well. So what exactly is social media and how can it benefit you?

Social networks mean relating and interacting with other people through the creation, exchange and exchange of thoughts and ideas through comments of themselves, the publication of photographs and / or videos. On these sites, you can socialize with others while swiping your business link from time to time. There’s nothing wrong with a little friendly publicity, right? So where are these social networking sites? Well, I can almost guarantee that you’ve been using one or more for some time now. Below is a description and examples of some of these sites:

Social Networking – This type of site connects people by posting about their lives and what they are up to. You can post about your business and share a link. This helps drive traffic to your site, especially when others share your business link with their friends. Create a profile; add friends and then post “status” updates. Interaction with others involves commenting on people’s statuses, playing games, and joining groups that others, or you, create. (Examples: Facebook, Hi5, Last.FM).

Social Bookmarking – This concept allows users to save bookmarks online, not just on their computers. This opened the door for companies to advertise by posting their links to the site. Some frown on this, calling it spam, but others allow it. How does it work? Register an account, bookmark your own site, and then start browsing and tagging websites bookmarked by others. In turn, they can click on your links to check them out. Having your business site is the key. (Examples: Del.icio.us, Simpy, Blinklist).

Social sharing of photos and videos: Create an account, upload photos and/or videos and share them with friends and family. Depending on your type of business, or even if you don’t have one, these sites may draw attention to you. Linking through other social networking sites for people to see is helpful. (Examples: YouTube, Flickr).

Social News: A collection of articles written by people just like you. Interact with others on the site by commenting and voting on published articles. If you’re a writer, these sites are a great place to get your work noticed. (Examples: Digg, Reddit, Propeller).

Social blogs: blogs that allow viewers to comment and/or discuss the blog itself. (Examples: Blogger, Tumblr, WordPress).

Social media can help your business so sign up and advertise let’s make as many as you can. Remember, any web page that allows you to interact with other people and post on the page itself will fall under the category of social networking. So don’t limit yourself to the above sites.