In case you haven't heard of social networking sites, where in the heck have you been? They are super hot these days, and if you aren't a member of one, then you need to join one right now. After all, you don't want to miss out on the latest and greatest marketing tool created, a tool that will allow you to meet all kinds of people for business or personal reasons. In fact, social networking websites are rapidly becoming the most accepted way of communicating with others on the virtual space.

You might be wondering how social networking websites are different from other virtual communities or chat rooms where you can also stay in touch with other people. The primary difference is that with social networking websites you get to pick and choose who you communicate with and you aren't flooded with messages from people you have no desire in chatting with or meeting.

You see, with social networking websites, you have a group of individuals who are the members of a network. They share a commonality of interest. They communicate with one another via an online platform and their community grows. Plus, some social networking sites are quite picky. You can only become a member if you are invited to join. So, in essence, someone has to vouch for you in order for you to become a member.

Today there are over 200 social networking websites that are available. However, there are only a few which are popular with a significant portion of the surfers. I will list a few for you to try.

Orkut, developed and launched in 2004, is Google's offering to the growing domain of social networking websites. Although a pretty late entrant, Orkut has really caught the imagination of those who have joined the site. The good thing about Orkut is its simple design and ease of use. The website is being updated regularly with extra features being included. Of course, entry is restricted and you must get an invite to join the community. Once you are there, you can upload your profile, have photos in your album, and join communities you are interested in.

Next, let's discuss another popular social networking site called MySpace. In fact, it is so popular that it registered more hits than Google for a month in 2005. Unlike Orkut, you don't need an invitation to join. You simply visit MySpace.com, register, input your information and bam you're a member. As a MySpace member, you can upload a profile, pictures, write blogs and even include video and music clips. And to top it all off, this site is completely free.

Classmates is another popular social networking site. It is actually the forerunner of all social networking websites and was started in 1995. The primary focus of the website is to reunite classmates who had lost touch over time. The basic membership comes free, but many of its services are restricted only to paid members. For example, you cannot search for an old classmate or read their profiles if you don't pay. Because of these restrictions, it has not been able to grow as other networks are growing. But if you agree to pay the fee, you may really get value for your money.

In conclusion, if you are truly interested in becoming a part of the fastest growing trend which is social networking, you should give it a try. You'll be pleasantly surprised and might just meet some great friends and acquaintances in the process.