Social Media Roundup

Now that so many authors are getting savvy to the ways of the web and the need to utilize social media effectively, it seems hardly a day goes by that we here at Publetariat don’t come across some commentary or how-to article on the matter. Here are some we’ve decided are worth a closer look.

The New York Times Technology department reports that Half of America Is Using Social Networks, which should convince you that making social media an integral part of your author platform strategy is definitely worth the effort.

If you have never used Twitter and have no idea what it’s all about, this YouTube video, Twitter in Plain English, is for you.

If you’re even further behind the curve and have no idea what social media are all about, Social Networking in Plain English provides an excellent, easy-to-understand introduction.

But maybe you’re more of a Facebook fan. In that case, you’ll want to check out Mashable’s Facebook Guide Book.

Over on Slate, Farhad Manjoo and Emily Yoffe debate the question: Is it OK to tweet your own horn?

Along those same lines, kikolani.com offers tips on how to self-promote through social media without turning off your online friends and followers in a post entitled Self-Promotion Through Social Media – Don’t Be A Narcissist.

Back on Slate, Kevin Gold addresses the "leaky" nature of internet privacy on social media sites like Facebook. As it turns out, people can learn plenty of your personal details just from your contacts’ profiles and links.

Now get out there and get social!