To Social Network, or NOT

More social networking solutions are available today than ever. As a user of two of the technologies, Linkedin and Facebook, I think both provide great capabilities and both are limited. For example, Linkedin provides capabilities for maintaining a professional profile, while Facebook provides great extensions that allow you to extend your network quickly. Also, you can use Facebook messaging features such as the Wall to communicate quickly.

I was hoping to get an idea of the success of these solutions—not site stats, but a user’s personal experiences—while using these sites as a means to keep in touch with other security professionals. In my opinion, Linkedin has provided an admirable service for maintaining some privacy and manage a somewhat professional look and feel for the technical community. I'm not entirely sure about the role of Facebook in my work life.

As a reader of this blog, I'd like to get your input. What works best to help you maintain a professional social network presence in the community? As much of a pain as it is to sign in using a Microsoft Live account, I challenge you to do so and provide me with your feedback!

Frank