Technology has reached a new level yet again. Whether you are a member of Facebook, MySpace, or haven't yet joined an online social networking site like these, it seems undeniable that they are having a substantial influence on society.

Like many people our age, I log into Facebook and MySpace daily to connect with friends. I list personal interests on my profile. My friends and I post comments on our walls and we upload pictures just about every weekend.

There is something undeniably cool about being able to view profiles of professional athletes, movie stars, band members or magazine entrepreneurs. How tight is it to have Reggie Bush as your online friend? Of course, users also look up long-lost friends, "meet" new people, and create viral followings for everything from music to magazines.

However, this technology doesn't come without controversy. People are concerned about predators, slander and explicit content, and there is serious validity to the red flags being raised. Unfortunately, the negative issues are generally the only ones covered by the media.

The Internet, as well as cell phones, chat rooms, and instant messenger all rode a wave of criticism before becoming mainstream technologies. With Rupert Murdoch buying MySpace for $580 million, and its estimated 70 million* users worldwide, sites like MySpace won't be disappearing anytime soon.

As with any new communication tool, we are learning what to keep private and where to be cautious. Here's another thing to think about: while I may be just another college student on Facebook, I am also the boss. As brass staff will attest, I can see from their postings what their interests are, who their friends are and what they read (or lack thereof). While I might be a little more chill than most execs, how would you like your boss or a potential employer seeing pictures of your weekend escapades? At brass, we bring a new meaning to the phrase "Facebooking" when a job application comes in.

Aside from job-security, don't neglect your personal safety. MySpace and Facebook disclose user-volunteered details that can be used for good or bad intentions, so don't list extensive personal information. Be careful what you share, and think twice about what weekend photos you upload.

Bryan Sims, CEO

*Approximate number of users at time of publication.