From MySpace and Facebook to LinkedIn and Twitter, social networking sites have grown by leaps and bounds in the past 10 years.  Ten years ago, the Internet savvy user cruised forum sites that ranged in interests from Parenting, Actors and Authors, Gaming, Sports Teams, and more.  I was a member of two: the Cats Domain for the University of Kentucky basketball superfans and Sci-Fi Author Anne McCaffrey.  I really enjoyed the time I spent at both, however one closed down because it became too burdonsome for the author to manage and the other turned too political for me.

Today, I spend some time on MySpace and Facebook, but both are dangerous whirlpools that can pull you in so that your time is forever lost in the deep abyss of a watery grave.

On the other hand, Twitter – which answers the question "What are you doing?" – can be used as a great tool for Realtors. You can post on Twitter using your mobile phone to say something like "5 min from meeting" or "Lost! Which road do I turn on?"  Of course, you can always just make a phone call asking or saying the same things.

Linked In is a fantastic site for business professionals.  I’ve written recommendations for friends, clients, and colleagues.  Where this can be valuable is you can also answer questions posed by Linked In members and become an expert in any given field.

However, you should always use caution when you go to social networking sites.  One agent was pounded after she wrote a negative comment about a couple.  That couple had friends and they had friends and her negative words spread quickly to everyone. Eventually her entire company was dragged through the mud.

If you are a Realtor and want to use social network sites, the benefit can be huge.  But the pitfalls can also be crippling, so always think before you write.  Keep in mind the ethical guidelines set forth by the National Association of Realtors and remember it’s not just your reputation on the line, but all of ours.