In your initial posting reflect on your social networking experiences and think of any ties you have (or had) with individuals or groups who provided any of the following:

a.  The opportunity to pursue a new job or career. Explain.

b.  Much-needed direction and support.  Explain.

c.  The motivation to be creative and try something new.  Explain.

How did these ties impact you personally and/or professionally?  Explain.

In your subsequent postings analyze these and other benefits of their networks in more depth. Specifically, what patterns emerge when they examine the value of: 1) diverse ties and 2) strong and weak ties? How can social networking be used to:

1)  Build diverse networks

2)  Diminish the global digital divide

3)  Minimize online micro-aggressions

4)  Create a resource for sharing through networking

5)  Create personal empowerment through networking

6)  Managerial cross cultural opportunities though social networking.