Social networking has become all the rage on the Internet. Few people are unaware of such sites as Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter. You may even log onto sites like these regularly to keep up with family and friends. But are you using the Internet to make business contacts or to promote your enterprise? In additin to career-related groups on these mega-sites, there are many social networking sites out there that are dedicated specifically to your interests or niche.

I have seen a dramatic improvement in my money-making potential since joining networks related to my personal and career interests. As a freelance writer and blogger, I belong to sites such as MomWriters, Media Bistro, and Mom Bloggers Club. Membership has allowed me to meet other moms and writers, but I’ve also made editorial contacts that have led to paying work. In addition, the information I’ve gained from other members has been extremely valuable for a newbie such as myself. Since starting my blog just a few months ago, I’ve already earned a Google Page Rank of 3, and my site has been mentioned in an international newspaper! Not bad for a newbie. I’ve also earned a contributing editor position at a site for moms through a contact I met on the World Wide Web.

Consider your own business interests. What kinds of contacts do you hope to make? What is your niche? If you’re in direct sales, check out The Direct Selling Women’s Association. Divapreneur is a social network for women who have a product or service to sell; the site touts itself as an “online magazine and network connecting shopping divas with selling divapreneurs.” It’s a great place to find potential customers and to connect with other women business owners.

There are countless opportunities out there. Spend some time perusing a search engine or check out YahooGroups to find one that’s right for you. Ning is another social networking site where you can find hundreds of groups; you can even create one of your own! The possibilities are endless, and the rewards are great. You’ll probably find more than one that fits your needs, interests, and personality. Just be careful to use your networking time wisely. As with most aspects of the Internet, it’s easy to spend an inordinate amount of time “meeting” new people and learning new things, while finding yourself spending less time on busines-related tasks. But it’s definitely worth your while to get involved in social networking. For the benefit of your business, go out and find your group!