Pros of Social Networking
The upside for the users of the various social networking sites is fairly straight-forward. It allows them to connect, locate, rediscover and otherwise enjoy friends and topics regardless of geographical location. It seems that online there is a place for everyone. Businesses especially can gain a boon from the social networking revolution. They are able to reach out to a much larger audience and stay on top or current trends and events that allow them to better understand their customers and tailor their approaches accordingly.
Cons of Social Networking
While it is a positive way to connect with the online world, social networking also has it's down side. The availability of information makes identity theft a risk, as well as unscrupulous users that leverage the sites to spread malware and viruses. For those choosing to avoid those pitfalls by avoiding the sites altogether, also run the risk of falling behind events in their social circle and appearing unfriendly or stand-offish. For corporations the greatest damage that a social network can do is to it's reputation. One bad experience by a customer or client can spread like wildfire through the networks leaving the business scrambling to do damage control which carries with it both social and monetary penalties.
Hope that helps!
