There are several social media sites that you can participate in today like Myspace and Twitter, and they all have their good and bad. The best way to choose a site to participate in is to evaluate the people who hang out there. In my opinion, Facebook is quite possibly the best sites for networking - both personally and professionally. I also use Linked In and Myspace. Of all the social networks, Facebook is the best website when it comes to all around marketing and networking.

I have been using Facebook for the past two years, and it is a superb tool to add to your marketing plan. Following are ten ways you can use Facebook to increase traffic to your website for FREE!

1. Build an Excellent Profile: This is absolutely the FIRST thing that you must do to make an impact on Facebook . Think of your Facebook profile as part of your branding strategy. A good profile will include a professional picture of you. Don't use the one of you on a cruise, unless that's what your selling. Make sure your new Facebook profile is complete. You should include your contact information, your website address (this is very important), education, work experience and your personal interests. A complete profile is the only way to go.

2. Add Friends: This is what sets Facebook apart - the ability to make friends, build relationships and foster them. The more people you meet, the more dynamic your marketing efforts will be. You can use Facebook's own tools to search for friends that have already joined Facebook. Once you add your friends, you can search for kindred spirits. Make their acquaintance, become their friend, build a relationship. One great feature on Facebook is that you can see your friends' friends. This will help you build a substantial network in no time.

3. Join Groups on Facebook: You can join online groups on Facebook that are similar to what you do. There are groups for filmmakers, writers, and fitness gurus. Almost every plausible kind of professional service provider has some type of group on Facebook. I belong to many groups and have made many new contacts this way.

4. Create your Own Group: Can’t find a group that really makes sense? Create your own! You can add members, publish articles, initiate some memorable discussions, and probably acquaint yourself with lots of new people. And even if you find good group to belong to, start your own. This gives you the opportunity to be the trendsetter!

5. Syndicate your Blog Using RSS: You can syndicate your own blog on your personal profile page. This basically means that every time you make a post, it will automatically show up on your profile page. More Exposure leads to More Readers leads to More Leads creates More Business. And the bonus is the back links to your site. I syndicate headlines from three blogs on Facebook.

6. Reach OUT: Are you a follower or admirer of someone’s work? Reach out to them on Facebook! Lots of my business contacts check their Facebook messages more repeatedly than their email. They are also more likely to answer Facebook messages. Don’t feel comfortable messaging someone you don’t know? Don't worry! Leave them a “just saying hi!” or “Your cool!” message on their wall. All profiles come with “virtual walls” where friends and acquaintances can leave a message. The more messages you leave on your friend's Facebook profiles the more exposure you get!

7. Add an Event: Hosting a Teleseminar or speaking somewhere? Create an events page and invite everyone you know. You can even see who RSVPed and get feedback from your attendees. Marketing doesn’t get much simpler (or effective!) than this.

8. Send Virtual Gifts: Want to show your appreciation for someone? Send them a virtual gift. You can choose from a bunch of Flowers to a potted plant that actually sits on the your friends profile and grows over time (plus many others). With all the Facebook applications for gift giving available, what are you waiting for. This is a cool way to build strong relationships!

9. Use Some Cool Apps: Facebook has literally tons of applications that were built just for the site. Event planners, testimonial gatherers, News and more. When you use an application, you get to invite your friends to use these interesting mini applications (Apps). So just like number 8 above, this allows you another way to connect with your Facebook friends. Again, this helps you build strong relationships.

10. Create a Community: More than likely Facebook’s greatest benefit is that it allows you to create a community. It provides you a group of people who are constantly linked to you, and your Facebook friends are open to hearing what you have to say. Write on people’s walls, respond to their comments, and introduce them to each other. Start building your brand and leveraging Facebook for marketing!

Facebook is a fantastic place to introduce yourself to several new people who may also become customers and/or clients. Just keep one thing in mind: don't get too carried away and spend all your time there. Facebook is a tool, part of your marketing plan. Use the tips above, use them wisely and have a little fun at the same time.