Woman talks with man

If you're new to the whole idea of social networking, you may need a quick tutorial in what to do and not do online. Or maybe not. It's mostly about being a good person and using your common sense.

Here are a few pointers from our Eons editors:

Be a self starter

Do: Be yourself. If you are passionate about a certain topic, start your own group or blog and invite your friends and and online connections to join in the conversation. If you build it, they will come!

Don't: Get discouraged if you can't immediately find a group discussion or blog that you like or are interested in.

Make a love connection

Do: Consider the Web a good resource for dating and meeting new people. Try visiting groups gathered around topics that you find interesting. Take time to read other people's profiles to learn their personality and find where you might click.

Don't: Solely rely on online dating sites and singles groups to meet people.

Share as much as you can

Do: Post a full roster of the things you like the most -- your most passionate hobbies and interests. If you're an expert on a topic, make that part of your profile. Sharing more of your life will lead to greater ways you can connect with people who share your interests.

Don't: Post information you don't want public -- phone numbers, addresses, even your employer, could possibly provide group members with more information than you might like. Privacy comes first.

Put a face with the name

Do: Post a picture of yourself. Find one that goes beyond appearances and really says something about your personality.
Don't: Post any photographs you don't want the world to see.

Watch, listen, learn -- then speak up!

Do: Join online groups that interest you, and whose tone and pace you appreciate. To determine if a group is right for you, read prior posts and become familiar with the level of discussion. As you begin to feel comfortable, voice your thoughts!

Don't: Be overly critical of posts made by other members. Online social networking groups are a place to voice opinions openly and frankly. If you disagree with a post made by another member, don't forget what your mom always said, 'If you don't have something nice to say, don't say anything at all."

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