For nearly a decade social networks have run the web, brought people closer together, and changed the way we socialize and communicate with each other. Although most people are familiar with social networks, seldom stray further than Facebook, Twitter, and Tumblr, but following are several hot social networks that’ll spice up your social life in 2012.
Fitocracy
Let’s face it, most social networks will have you sitting in front of a computer or mobile device and are pretty much the opposite of hitting the gym, but not Fitocracy. Fitocracy is part game, part workout partner, part social network, and completely awesome. Members of the site can log their workout progress, set fitness goals, and turn fitness into a game, while meeting others that’ll support them along their journey. Regardless of your favorite social network, Fitocracy is a great addition that’ll help you shave off all those pounds added while sitting and chatting with friends.
Goodreads
As an introvert that loves nothing more than cuddling in front of a nice book with a hot cup of tea, Goodreads is one of my favorite social networks of 2012. Goodreads is a book sleuths dream come true and allows members to log the books they’ve read, categorize them, rate and recommend books to friends, make new friends, and even recommends new books based on books you’ve already read. Goodreads is the social network for users that spend more time facing actual books than chatting on Facebook.
Most social networks focus on texting and status updates, but Instagram is the photo sharing social networks that proves that a picture is worth a thousand words – take that Twitter character limit. Instagram is like if someone took Tumblr and Flicker, married them, and put them in your pocket. With this social network users can share photos from their lives live and while on the go. If you’re really wondering what your friends are up to and want to connect with them on a new level, give Instagram a try.
Samuraized
Move over LinkedIn, there’s a new business social network on the block and it goes by the name of Samuraized.com. Samurai means “to serve” and Samuraized.com is all about serving entrepreneurs in their businesses while bringing them together, adding credibility to their businesses, and providing a great platform for encouragement, networking, and tools to help them keep their businesses afloat. Regardless of if you’re a traditional business owner, freelancer, network marketer, a part-time employee, or looking to start a business, Samuraized is definitely a social network that you should check out in 2012.
OkCupid
One of the underlying selling points of Facebook, Twitter, Myspace, and other social networks is dating or finding that “special” someone, but if you’re genuinely interested in finding a date online, OkCupid is the definitely a site that you’ll want to check out in 2012. Unlike most other online dating sites, OkCupid is totally free, allows users to find workout partners, friends, lovers, and temporary flings, and is one of the “spiciest” sites on the web. As a social network totally centered around online dating, it’s best to stop creeping out your old high school classmates with flirty messages on Facebook and Twitter and head over to OkCupid instead.
