There are so many social networking sites out there, including MySpace, Facebook, and LinkedIn, but do you have to join all of them? You’re probably afraid to say ‘no,’ because you might miss out on a crucial business contact. According to the experts at MSNBC, it won’t help your career to have profiles on numerous sites, unless you can frequently update them and check out new connections. Instead, focus your efforts and build a solid network on two sites, max. Here are a few facts to help you pick and choose.  

• You might consider LinkedIn - which has a strong reputation in the professional, job-seeking world. In fact, recruiters think so highly of LinkedIn, many companies start their search for potential job candidates there.
• If you’d prefer a networking site that feels less formal, try Facebook. If you’re using it for professional purposes, be careful. Engage the privacy settings, so prospective employers don’t accidentally see last weekend’s party pictures.  
• You also might target your specific industry. In a Google search box, type your job title, along with the words “social networking”. You’ll find websites like “MyLayover.com” for truckers and “FirefighterNation.com” for Firefighters, EMS and Rescue personnel.
• If you’d like a website where you can showcase your knowledge, try Squidoo. You can upload videos of yourself, add blogs, create links, and include news on subjects you’re interested in.  That way, when a prospective employer Googles you, they’ll be able to figure out whether you’ll be a good fit before you walk through the door.  
• Finally, for networking opportunities in your area, there’s “MeetUp.com.” Just add your topic of interest and ZIP code, and you can put away your mouse, and try the most effective career networking strategy there is. Actually meeting people face to face!