Linton man talks about social networking at state festival meeting

It was all about social networking for a Linton man who recently presented on the topic at the Indiana State Festival Association's annual meeting.

Daniel French, of Linton, gave an overview of Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn at the ISFA's meeting in Indianapolis earlier this month.

"I talked mostly about social media. How to get in touch with people and keep in contact with one another ... the group didn't have a lot of knowledge about it," French said in an interview with the Greene County Daily World.

The group also had a lot of questions that apply to anyone who has reservations about using such social networking sites.

"A lot of them were confused about privacy, how to keep their accounts secure, what to put on there and what not to put on there," French said. "Many people had technical questions and a lot just wanted to see it and how it worked."

French used his on-line accounts to give a hands-on lesson in social networking.

"One thing I talked about is my mom -- who lives in Georgia. I'm very busy these days ... but, my mom can get on and see what I'm doing," French said. "It's also nice for my clients who want to get to know me or follow me."

French also compared the social networking sites to a newspaper because of their news feed.

You can also share articles, photos and video on the sites, he added.

"I think it (presentation) went great. I think everyone came away with eyes open. There was a lot of participation, interest and a lot of really good questions. I was pretty thrilled," French said.

French, who is employed with MainSource Insurance, also noted that although he uses social networking sites regularly he isn't a professional on the topic.

"It was fun for me. I met a lot of good people and it presented some good networking. ... It's (social media) something I hope catches on," he added.

French also noted that he would be willing to present on the topic again at local meetings such as the Linton-Stockton Chamber.