Social Networking

What is Social Networking?

Social networking refers to a social structure where groups of people share interests and information. When it comes to online social networking it refers to a website that connects people. These websites are known as social networks and operate like online communities. Using social network sites you can share information, media, feedback and much more. There are various external social network sites – below is the list of some of the most popular sites:

• Facebook
• Google +
• LinkedIn
• Twitter
• Pinterest
• YouTube
• Live Journal
• Myspace
• Ning
• Meetup

Where social sites bring the benefit of ease of information sharing, they can also bring the danger of data theft and viruses. Every problem has a solution and so it is in this case. To prevent the dangers outlined above, organisations have to put a  social networking policy in place. A social networking policy is a corporate code of conduct that outlines the guidelines which the organisation members have to follow to avoid any unwanted incidents happening. When designing a social media policy, the following key points should be considered:

• Private and confidential information should not be shared online
• Employees should not use a corporate social profile for personal use
• Guidelines for employees to recognise that they are representatives of a company therefore being careful before sharing any information
• Social media policy should be considered as part of social media strategy

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