How do I get started with social media

How do I get started social media?  This is a question that is often asked of me. The answer is simple, you start by listening.

May people have described social media as a cocktail party. Like most cocktail parties where you only know a few people, or maybe no one at all, it can be awkward at first. But if you grab a drink and sit back and listen as you make a tour of the room you might find a conversation that you'd like to join.

Listen some more and introduce yourself.  Add in your appropriate two cents worth and see where it leads. Once you figure out where your conversations make sense you can join the community and contribute. It is as simple as that to start.