There are many social networks that are yearning for your attention and it can be hard to choose which ones are truly beneficial or a waste of your time. After trying an array of social start-ups and in some cases, initially enjoying them, but having no reason to return regularly, they quickly become dust bunnies in my mind. So,  it is nice to find a Social Network that not only capitalizes on what we like today, but also ties it in with something we are all too familiar with…Traditional Media.

GetGlue is a Social Network for the Entertainment Industry, from music, television shows, to movies, books and sharing ideas with its community. Currently it has over 2 million users and in 2011 it received “breakout start-up of the year award” by the well-known Social Media source, Mashable, but why?

Cleverly this growing social network tapped into the use of commonality, the ability to bring something we are already doing or have done (TV, Movies, etc.) and revive it by tying it to something new and popular (Social Media). Having 75 major networks and 10 movie studios using GetGlue to promote their shows and movies to fans helps GetGlue to create a social network entirely made up of Industries we have spent many hours entertained by, bringing it to one spot and making it a social hub for fans to share thoughts, write reviews, like or vote on comments and on your favorite entertainment genres of choice, these actions are then automatically added to each individual list so others can see your interests too, not to mention you can share your activity on Facebook and Twitter. You also have the option to “dislike” something which aids in their ability to suggest entertainment they think you will enjoy based on your voting.

GetGlue takes it even further by adding gamification to your actions which ups the ante of taking part either on their site or through their smartphone app regularly. The incentive is to use the “check-in” feature, by simply checking in you can see which of your friends are listening or watching along with you as well as anyone else who has checked-in. This allows you to interact in real-time with others and they reward you with online stickers (I especially like the limited edition ones) and discounts off of merchandise from stores that are home to your favorite shows or movies.

The GetGlue Trending feature gives you the ability to never wonder what to watch again, by showing you which shows and movies are airing in real-time and are the most popular by its community, it certainly beats checking the guide on the TV or channel surfing.

As you can see, GetGlue offers an array of reasons to want to use this site, and is quick and easy to learn so you can start checking-in right away. It is this type of unique social network that get my attention by understanding that using commonality, social and gamification is the right way to create a start-up, one that will not only last, but will be fun to watch grow.

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Erin Ryan is a writer for various blogs and a Social Media Promotional Director who has a keen understanding of the power of Social Media for business and fervently stays up-to-date with the Social Media Industry. Erin enjoys teaching and helping people and businesses on how to use and connect through Social Media. You can connect with Erin on Twitter.

Read more Social Media news on TheErinRyan Blog.