As a freelancer–which can be an isolating endeavor–I find online social networking useful. Of course it’s wonderful to see real people, but with the growth of technology and expanded communications, it’s possible to include more people in your life.

At the moment I am in the middle of Denmark listening to a Frenchman and Norwegian make lunch in the next room. In a moment I will go join them, face to face. But none of us would be here at all if we didn’t venture online every now and then.

I’ve been outside the cube, as it were, for over two years now, and I can’t imagine ever going back. And like those people jumpstarting their business ideas on Facebook, it’s been the technology and Google AdSense that enabled that.

Even so, when you have to pay for everything out of your own pocket, suddenly a whole lot of those necessary business expenses become entirely unnecessary. Not just the wining and dining, but even the office space.

And my social network, such as it is, is comprised of real people, most of whom live within 50 miles of here, and many of whom I see in person at least weekly. You know, the old-fashioned way. So I don’t have a whole lot of use for Facebook.

as for facebook, i’ve already determined that i can’t deal with all the invitations to vampire parties, brain teasers, and graffit fests. i’m guessing social networks work best for those with salaried gigs, so they can spend all day doing whatever it is people do on social networks on their boss’ dime.

As far as Facebook, you’re probably better off without it. It can eat up a lot of time.