Everything you need to know about social networking in the veterinary profession

Does it seem like every time you turn around, you're hearing about Facebook this, Twitter that, blah blah blah ... Well, don't be too quick to tune out the chatter. Real practices are doing exciting things with these social networking sites, and for your convenience we've gathered everything the dvm360.com editors have posted to date in this convenient package. Consider it your veterinary social networking road map.

First, test your knowledge by taking our social media BizQuiz. Then click on the links below, or navigate through a page at a time by using the "Next" button.

IN DEPTH: HOW TO USE SOCIAL NETWORKING EFFECTIVELY

QUICK TIPS: SOCIAL NETWORKING DO'S AND DON'TS

SOCIAL NETWORKING TRENDS

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IN DEPTH: HOW TO USE

SOCIAL NETWORKING EFFECTIVELY

Protect your practice's reputation online Practical advice and resources to jumpstart your journey into the new world of social media. By Karyn Gavzer, MBA, CVPM, DVM Newsmagazine.

Don't be a Facebook failure Judicious use of your clients' favorite social media tool can be a bridge-just make sure any embarrassing facts or photos are hidden from clients and colleagues. By Dr. Andrew Roark, DVM Newsmagazine.

Online networking-it works! Build relationships to build your veterinary practice. By Mark Opperman, CVPM, Veterinary Economics

Step-by-step strategies: Making social media worth the time and effort Does social media really pay off? This article, first in a series, explains everything you need to know to successfully network online. By Brenda Tassava, CVPM, Firstline.

Social revolution: How Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube can help your veterinary practice Don't underestimate the power of a post, a tweet, or a video upload. Social networking can help you connect with clients and build your business. By Dr. Ernie Ward, Veterinary Economics. Related: Get savvy with these 4 social media etiquette tips

QUICK TIPS:

SOCIAL NETWORKING

DO'S AND DON'TS

Make Twitter work for your practice This doctor figured the public might be interested to know what a veterinarian does in his daily work life. By Dr. Pete Wedderburn, Veterinary Economics.

How to handle employees who get on Facebook Team members can express themselves using social media-as long as everyone understands the boundaries. By Marty Miller, Veterinary Economics.

Form: Social media policy Set team members on the right social-media track at your practice with this customizable policy. By Veterinary Economics.

Twitter can make-or break-your reputation Proactive use of online social networks preserves your practice's standing with clients. By Firstline.

Video blog: Connect with clients through social networking Seaside Animal Care uses Twitter and Facebook to connect with clients. Here's what you need to know to do it too-and with success. By Gina Toman, Firstline.

How to use social networking in your job search More employers than ever are using social networking sites to screen job candidates. Make sure you present a positive online image. By Veterinary Economics.

SOCIAL NETWORKING TRENDS

DVMs warming up to social networking, texting New studies show increased use of newer technologies among practitioners. By Rachael Whitcomb, DVM Newsmagazine.

Online networking can have clinical value More healthcare organizations use social networking to disseminate critical information to large numbers of people in real time. By Firstline.

Social Web sites can help small businesses 88 percent of U.S. small business owners use social media to gain attention for their businesses, improve traffic to their Web sites, and find new clients. By Veterinary Economics.

Related: Facebook attracts clients.

BizQuiz: Are you a social-media maven or a Web wipeout? Test yourself to see if you're ready to dive into the world of social-networking Web sites. By Veterinary Economics.

Veterinary businesses use social media to collect donations for oil-spill cleanup Veterinary clinics, pharmacy ask for donations on Twitter, Facebook to help Gulf wildlife. By Firstline.

Twitter becomes fundraising tool for Haiti Veterinary groups join forces to spread the word about a Haiti fundraiser with just a few clicks. By Firstline.

FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine joins Twitter The U.S. Food and Drug Administration will provide frequent updates on the world of animal health. By DVM Newsmagazine.

Banning social media won't keep team members off the internet Instead of forbidding Facebook usage, teach team members how to use the site to promote your practice.

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