About the worst thing you can do via social networking is to come across as an advertiser looking to promote a product or service. Social-media expert Muhammad Saleem says you must avoid these pitfalls:
1. Don't be a spammer. Seek out people who will be truly interested in what you have to say.
2. Don't be a stranger. Social networking thrives on relationships... the more the better.
3. Don't be noise. Once you have people's attention, focus on adding value to the conversation.
4. Don't be lazy. You have to participate to get anything out of social networks. Don't just build a profile and let it gather dust while you wait for people to notice. They don't.
5. Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Diversify your efforts. Seek out specialized social networks for advertisers and in the fields you serve.
6. Don't be fake. Don't pretend to be a satisfied user of a product, for example. When you're found out, the backlash will far outstrip any short-term gain.
7. Don't be selfish. Social networking is about the community, not you. "You must contribute more than you want to get out of it," says Saleem.
