The rapidly-rising popularity of social networks have changed the rules of customer interaction.

Using social networks effectively requires some basic knowledge and a framework that will keep things running smoothly.

Some basic rules to consider include:

1. If you are the webmaster, then be careful to keep discussion open and limit censorship.

Of course, this does not mean that you should allow or entertain offensive, inappropriate, obscene, or excessively negative comments.

Moderation is often required, though use it sparingly if you want an honest communication with and among your audience.

2. If you are a user, then know the rules of the particular social network you are participating in.

Know how to submit your posts properly.

3. Use a picture with your profile that�s visible when you post.

This makes it more personal, and more likely that you will get responses from other users.

Being recognized in other forums will get you some traffic to your site, too.

4. Use the network feature to your advantage.

Search for people who list similar interests or business types, get them on board as one of your contacts or friends.

5. Don�t get banned from a site because you are too off-topic.

Keep your posts relevant to the thread or start a new one for others to respond to.

6. Don�t spam the social media site.

Offer good content, and this will get visitors to then visit your site and see what you�re all about.

People want to read useful information, if yours is good then it will get you noticed in a good way.

If you post garbage, then nobody will bother clicking through and visiting your site.

7. Be careful to not submit the same post to every single site that you are a member of.

Be aware that there are plenty of people just like you, that belong to all of the most popular social media sites, and they will be likely to notice that you have posted the same content to 20 different sites.

Changing things up a bit, even a small amount, makes a difference.

8.Remember that the other users are individuals, just like you.

Everyone has an opinion, and everyone wants to be important and be heard.

Avoiding overtly negative interactions and comments makes the site better and a more effective way to interact.

If you need to be critical, try to do it in a constructive way that does not end up doing more harm than good.

It�s nearly impossible for you to avoid social media sites if you are involved in any Internet activities these days.

Being aware of and respectful of how these sites run and what they can accomplish for you will get you farther in the long run.

Consider these guidelines as a basic starting point for your future success with social media sites.

Share your tips for using social media networks to your advantage!