Once upon a time networking meant, the Rotary Club Breakfast, the Chamber Mixer, the Optimists Club, or even Toastmasters. Now networking is online all the time. All networking is not created equal and most networking comes with non social side effects!

If you are a solopreneur, entrepreneur, or owner of a home based business you need to know what you are getting into before you start social networking online. Many of the networking sites are not moderated for content or for any comments or pictures that may be posted.

When you use a social networking site that does not cater to a business environment you run the risk of targeting the wrong clients or detracting from the serious nature of your message, your business, and ultimately your bottom line.

Linkedin and Active Rain are fabulous business/social networking sites. Both are networks for professionals to create business or referral relationships through an online vehicle. Each network offers the opportunity to meet professionals in the same profession or other professions that compliment the goods or services that you offer.

There are groups within each online community that you can link to or you can remain on your own. The exciting part is that with either network you have increased the likelihood that you will be found on the web.

There are unlimited possibilities to network on the web, just be sure to research the environment you are logging into. Remember that over time the more you network the more your net worth!