Why use Social Networking tools/sites? To be social! These sites encourage making or reviving connections and maintaining them through new means.
Sites that allow and encourage you to add “Friends” or “Connections” are generally considered Social Networking sites:
Social Networking in Plain English Video courtesy of Common Craft
Social Networking tools can be used for personal networking (reconnecting with old friends, finding people with similar interests, organizing gatherings, etc.).
Social Networking tools can be used for professional networking (Advertising, acquiring new clients, immediate help, customer service—i.e. @ComcastCares).
What’s the difference between Blogging and Micro-Blogging? A blog is where the author can write, display pictures, and thoughts in any length or format they choose. Micro-Blogging is meant to be used as a means of quick (often limited—i.e. Twitter = 140 characters only) updates or communications:
Twitter in Plain English Video courtesy of Common Craft
