Social networking sites, while they seem silly to a lot of VARs and other professionals to be “silly” have generated a lot of revenue for many different types of individuals and businesses.  VARs should pay close attention to social networking sites for the following reasons:

1.    “Toys” of the past have become real business tools.  In 1977, many experts felt that computers would never make it into someone’s home or business as a useful tool.  But, today, e-mail and the many applications and companies that have driven technology into new realms have made computers invaluable, and have given VARs their jobs in the first place.  

2.      Generation “Y” is working.  The young people joining the workforce today have very different perceptions of technology than their predecessors.  They have a comfort level with social networking and other technologies.  Those 29 and younger communicate more through technology than in person, and VARs and others need to be sensitive to and mindful of this fact.   

3.    Social networking helps businesses.  Businesses and “older” professionals are getting past the skepticism and using  dating services like Match.com and eHarmony and “friendship” services like Myspace and Facebook.  Millions have jumped on the blogging bandwagon.  Even though social networking began with personal lives, it’s extending now to business and improving communication within companies across great distances.

4.    Rewards mean risks.  When a technology sector explodes like Web 2.0, there are a lot of money-making opportunities, and in this case, for VARs.  VARs can make some money through direct investment in promising companies or early adoption of cutting-edge technology.  Regardless, risk taking can bring big rewards.  However, the process of trying to find the best social networking site is difficult.  People can pay attention to the social networking space to see how products perform over time.   

5.    Power means responsibility.  Because social networking is new, the rules are not determined yet.  Therefore, privacy, free speech and even health are concerns for those that get involved.  VARs should pay attention to this space to get in the game and stay ahead of the curve.  

Added By:  Computer Consulting 101 Professional Kit