Great blog and very helpful…based on our conversation today and this blog I have joined and updated my profile on several of these Social Media Sites…In addition and as per your recomendation, I will be an active player in this arena.
Thanks for the great and practical insights.

I totally agree with #3!! I think social media from a business standpoint in particular is ALL about adding value and building relationships. (A philosophy shared by Buckminster Fuller!)

Though, with limited time, I’m not sure about participating on 25 SM sites!! I usually recommend professionals choose one or two as a primary focus and then experiment with others and track results. Facebook is my top pick. I also love Twitter for the instant real-time factor. I’m dabbling with Ning just now and a few others like Plaxo.

I’m also seeing a growing need for busy professionals to outsource their SM activity. I sought out a competent VA last year so I’d have someone to refer high level clients to. For myself I’m choosing to do all my own activities so far… but I’m sure feeling stretched!

I do think the key is to see and be seen in as many places as possible… and still be able to measure specific results.