Wouldn't you agree there has been a significant shift in the way social networking is conducted these days? Who would have ever thought you would be able connect with your family and friend all around the world from one single location and at the same time build and grow a business? It really is a unique phenomenon that has something for everyone of all ages, even my Mother who is 80 years old and has her own Facebook network.

Facebook was launched in February of 2004 by a Harvard student, Mark Zuckerberg. He created the site as a way for Harvard students to get to know each other. The overwhelming popularity of the site led to its spread to membership that included other communities. The growth continued and in August of 2005 the site evolved into the social networking site that we know and love.

But the site continues to evolve as the developers realize that this site is now being used to grow businesses and to create communities of every possible group of kindred spirits.

While it's free to joining Facebook, there are still particular terms and conditions. One of the glorious aspects of Facebook is that it can be used to promote and even run a business. Relatively few businesses are using this avenue to its full potential. That is probably because Facebook offers so many opportunities for individuals and businesses alike, that many people neglect learning about the ins and outs of utilizing the methods available to them.

Obviously with any form of social networking participation is key to success. But additionally if you plan to profit through the use of Facebook it is essential that you understand the basics of what is available to you. It is also important that you have a plan about what it is that you want your membership to do for you.

When setting up your account and developing your profile you must keep your goals in mind. If you want to simply socialize then you will set your profile up in a more personal way than if you plan to use your membership to start or grow your business.

If your goal is business-oriented then you should position yourself as an expert in your field or niche. Facebook provides a potential audience of millions and your basic goal is to gain as much exposure as possible for your product or service.

However, due to the nature of Facebook you must keep in mind that it is a social networking site and the members there do not want to be sold to. Keep in mind you don't build your business through the traditional "Sales Letter”. Instead the tactics used must be more of a back-door approach.

Facebook offers many features that will assist you with building a business. Included are some of the following:

1) Social ads

2) Facebook pages

3) Facebook beacon

4) Facebook insights

5) Facebook platform

6) Facebook polls

As you can see Facebook is a perfect place to build the foundation of your business. Believe it or not, some have discovered Facebook to deliver an amazing level of success and freedom they had been seeking. Learning the intricacies will set you apart from others on Facebook and lead to the achievement of your success.