Thing 6 - Social Networks - A Profersonal Approach

I try and limit my use of Facebook because I’ve found it’s easy to be sucked into the world of online chat, particularly, when Facebook sends you those little emails alerting you when someone has updated their page. I’ve always been careful about what I say online and wouldn’t be ashamed if my employer did check. I often use the Facebook links on a webpage to 'share' a library related article or website with colleagues, meaning the line between personal and profession is often blurred.

The‘Voices For The Library’ (http://www.facebook.com/voicesforthelibrary) Facebook page is definitely worth a visit. Whatever you think about Facebook; it remains the most well known and popular social networking site and therefore has huge potential as a marketing tool. 

I’ve not used LinkedIn before. It gives the impression of being a very formal professional network where you promote your CV. I don’t think I’m important enough to have a LinkedIn profile and so have decided to look into some of the other professional networks.

The LISNPN network seems both more 'friendly' and informal and is, I feel, better suited to new professionals like me. Furthermore, one of my Barnet Library colleagues has just registered and we’ll be able to keep in touch. The LISNPN discussion pages seem very lively and informative. I’ve created a profile and introduced myself. I’ll definitely be using LISNPN as part of my CPD.