The growth in the popularity of online social networking sites has attracted flocks of internet marketers to various sites. In fact the phenomenal growth of social network sites has likely been boosted by this attraction. Online entrepreneurs being an opportunistic bunch recognize the traffic potential these sites have. It appears however that effectively using these sites for marketing on the internet still seems to be in the developmental stages.

Let's look at 3 common mistakes people continue to make when trying to use social network sites for marketing on the internet.

It's a Social Community Not a Marketplace

Do not go into any social site with your marketing guns blazing away. You will likely find yourself shooting blanks. People do not like to be approached about buying insurance at a Christmas Party and social network members do not like to be assaulted with advertisements. The biggest mistake of all here is that little or no time is spent by many online entrepreneurs to develop any type relationship with other members.

Hiding Your Identity

Bad move right away! If you are on a social site but are reluctant to 'reveal' your identity you may as well move on. OK maybe a 'mysterious personality' is attractive to some in the dating scene however these are SOCIAL sites.

You can not expect a person to feel comfortable with someone that acts like they are part of a 'witness protection program' and therefore reluctant to reveal their identity. You will be received with all the warmth of a glass of ice water on a cold winter day!

Your first step when joining any of the social network sites should be to complete your bio. It is also a good idea to post a picture of yourself or at least a caricature if you are that shy.

Getting Expectations Too High

Yes social network sites can be used to help grow your business but relationships must first be built before significant and meaningful traffic can be generated. Online entrepreneurs should not rely too heavily upon these sites for immediate and targeted traffic needs since their origins are rooted in socializing and not commerce. Social networking is what spawned the popularity of these sites and it is unlikely that emphasis will change.

On the other hand these sites are a great compliment to your other traffic sources and contacts you make here can prove to be fruitful later on.

It is tempting to devote a lot of time 'working' social network sites for business due to the traffic potential and because they are 'free' to join. However time is money and you may find you are spending more time at these sites than they are worth at least from a business standpoint.

Online social networking remains to be a potential marketing bonanza but far too many online entrepreneurs continue to use inefficient and 'anti-social' techniques. Their mistaken attitudes and behavior only serve to make their efforts less effective. The 3 common mistakes we reviewed above serve as mere examples of the type 'behavior' most social network sites are not receptive to. In order to more efficiently utilize these sites for marketing purposes there will be a greater need for the use of finesse and patience. At that point the vast potential of these sites will then begin to be released.