In talking with business professionals, I hear the debate about whether to personally use social networks as part of a sales or marketing strategy.
My thoughts on this are simple: online social networks make the disconnected and impersonal world of technology feel more connected and human. And in the absence of truly remarkable products or services, businesses rely on remarkable people.
If you have a clear understanding of your business goals and you can make these goals part of your activity in the social networks, then these online conversations will earn their place in your sales toolbox.