“I started my own business on January 1st and posted about it in a LinkedIn group. Through that post I was offered (and accepted) a partnership by one of the largest equine communications businesses in the country. It is a fabulous opportunity to grow my business that I never would have found without social media marketing.”

“I think social media can be a very powerful tool for business. I’m continually surprised that more people (and businesses) are not making greater use of the tools, especially in a down market. I think we’re going to see the corporate use of these solutions accelerate, but marketers are going to have to get a lot savvier in their use of the tools - users just aren’t going to accept social media spam.”

“I don’t think it is professional to use social media for marketing of yourself or a business, even if it is a current trend. In fact, because it is a current trend, it should not be considered as an effective tool. Trends soon go out of style or people come to their senses.”

“My company has found it particularly effective to search for potential clients using social media. I have also found them effective, LinkedIn especially, in my employment search.”\\

“I think it is an improper way to address a corporate audience and have advised my employees to leave the company out of any personal use of these sites.”

“I highly recommend all professionals to utilize social media personally and for a company. It can be very effective if used properly. It requires a change of mindset though, since this is not a place for advertising and traditional marketing. Think it through a little before you just jump in.”

“Social media is a passing fad for teenagers. It has no place in the business world.”