I stumbled upon this article by Anthony LaFauce that talks about apprehension and setting goals (amongst other things) for new social media users. Career professionals in particular need to establish a predetermined set of goals for what they hope to accomplish with social media. Rather than focus on anything short term, prepare for long term success. Regular participation is the key ingredient for success with social networks. Over time, social media can you help you develop your brand and online reputation.

The Oregon Commentator states in an article today that blogging is a useful tool for advocacy journalism and "original" reporting.

Vanity Fair has produced a blog matrix, charting some of the web's most prominent and influential blogs vertically on a news to opinion axis (Consumerist to PostSecret) and horizontally on a scurrilous to earnest axis (TMZ to Global Voices).

The New York Times has launched a new blog, The New Old Age, to discuss a growing crisis for Americans - caring for elderly parents who are living longer than ever before, in a healthcare system that has never before dealt with this level of demand.

The blogosphere's interactive, communal spirit is shaking the foundations of print journalism, but traditional journalists should embrace the change, says Roy Greenslade. News, he says, is no longer "one-way traffic".

In an innovative ploy, MySpace and NBC News are recruiting citizen journalists to cover the Democratic and Republican national conventions.

After the Associated Press filed take down notices against community-created Drudge Retort, arguing copyright violations for quotes from 33 to 79 words long, the blogosphere responded with vehemence.

Two US newspapers have launched niche blogs in the last week, catering to mothers and Olympic enthusiasts, respectively.

The spawning of online communities and social networks has significantly changed the way businesses market to consumers. In the past, marketing initiatives were pushed on consumers. These days the information is being shared and discussed. Consumers now use blogs, wikis, social networks and other tools to communicate and connect with one and other and to share ideas, knowledge and feedback about your brand and it’s important for you to listen and participate.

continue reading