social Marketing

The sites described in this section are what are know as "networking" sites. So what does that mean? It means that you have an opportunity to get to know many people who share your interests, and who may make purchases from you at some point in time as they come to trust and like you. All of these sites are spam intolerant, which is to say that they do not tolerate sales pitches and direct selling.
If you have ever networked for your job (belonged to a professional association) or some other type of work/social type group, you should have a good idea of how to use social networks effectively. In addition, they can be used extremely successfully if you have something valuable to offer. Most of the people on these sites do not like Internet marketing programs or information on this topic, so keep that in mind as you join and begin to network.
With networking, as you get to know people, you may be approached and asked if you know someone who can write/teach/speak, etc. on the topic in which you have expressed interest. This may be an opportunity for yourself, or you may know of someone who is good at that subject that you can recommend. Multiply this effect, and you will find limitless opportunities without a great deal of pressure or stress.

From effective networking, you can expect to gain not only actual sales, but speaking opportunities in your area of expertise, joint venture opportunities and possibly even personal friendships.

Some of the kinds of results others are getting with these sites include joint venture offers, clients, writing gigs, speaking opportunities, and of course, sales of your personal or affiliate products. However, these groups do not focus on buyers; they are not advertising media, and so you must approach them in a different way than you do with AdWords or even article marketing.
From effective networking, you can expect to gain not only actual sales, but speaking opportunities in your area of expertise, joint venture opportunities and possibly even personal friendships. As you are probably aware, getting a chance to speak in front of others always offers the possibility of sales of your product or service.
Ning is one site that has many special interest groups you can join -- or you can create your own. When you join one of these groups, you will have established an area of interest that will attract other members to connect with you. However, before going into detail on that topic, here is some basic information about setting up your accounts.