Social networks are the networking tools of today.  Find a network online, join and give your two cents worth.  But what does this mean to you, and more importantly your business.  Well with more and more people using social networks online, people no longer just look at your website; they delve deep into it, into past clients, current clients, and even your prospective client’s mind.  They are able to use these networks to find out your reputation as a company, and review what your clients/consumers think about your business.

If you think these social networks are nothing to worry about, I would strongly urge you to reconsider their prominence, and power on the net.  CNN recently reported that children this year for lent, will not be using the social networks, considering the gesture as a major sacrifice. 

But what does it mean for businesses?  Last year American consumers spent $79 billion on online travel, and are expected to spend close to $146 billion by 2010.  Where the problem lies is that with more and more people sharing not only their experiences, but also their advice and recommendations, online travel agencies are facing an enormous amount of pressure.  Put that together with the pressure these sites are already going through with hotels and airlines now selling directly to their consumers through their own websites, and it could have a devastating effect.

But it’s not all doom and gloom.  Social networks can also be a great tool for the business owner.  Some of these social networks can generate a lot of leads, and hot leads at that.  One that has been has been covered by Time, CNN, and Forbes is www.linkedin.com .

So get out there and try a social network, who knows you may have some fun in the process.