Perhaps one of the most amazing things about the Web is that just when you thought all the possibilities have been exhausted, something new turns up.
Social networking is definitely one of those innovative ideas.
It has been in existence for some time now and has very much changed the way people use up a lot of their time on the Internet.
As a matter of fact, it has truly revolutionized the manner in which people communicate online.
As an added bonus, you may also get in touch with old friends, classmates and acquaintances by means of social networking sites.
Apart from that, you may even get a hold of phone numbers -- provided that luck is on your side.
Needless to say, you need to sign up for an account first and be an active member of a social network.
When you say active, it basically means that you have to regularly update your profile and play a part in the vast online network.
These days, social networking sites are a plenty.
To increase your chances of stumbling upon old friends, you have to figure out which network to sign up for.
In case you have a lot of time on your hands, try joining a number of social networks.
This way, you'll have a wider scope to conduct your search in.
Perform A General Search Social networking sites typically have a general search option that you can use to look people up online.
You may begin by keying in the person's name.
After that, you have to wait for the system to generate results, which can range from zero to many.
Your next step would be to look for a match.
Keep in mind that some people may share similar names.
For instance, if you type in a "John Smith", a number of profiles would most likely turn up since it is a rather common name.
Then again, if you were in luck, it wouldn't really take that long until you come across the person you are trying to find.
By clicking on the link, you will be routed to his or her profile.
If you're hoping to get a phone number, then you better start praying that it is displayed in the profile; otherwise, you can always send him or her a message about your desire to meet up or talk.
Narrow Down The Search If the results spawned by a social networking site's general search are overwhelming, your best option is to narrow down your search.
Needless to say, you have to bring to mind whatever you can come up with about your old friend.
If you know his or her age, then that would really help.
You may also key in the name of his or her school and graduation year.
However, this would necessitate you to become a member of the school network.
Nevertheless, joining one is surely a lot of fun because of the huge possibility of chancing upon former classmates and acquaintances.
When doing a person search though, you have to bear in mind that not everyone can be found through social networking sites.
So keep yourself open to this possibility.
Some people are simply not into these things and would much rather prefer to steer clear of social networks.