I think I'm in the extreme minority about the concept of consistently following or friending strangers in the social networks. It seems most people don't like the idea of embracing strangers until relationships are established. I've always thought it better to accept the invitation of a stranger to connect and then figure out what the connection is instead of blanket rejecting the relationship request (unless of course the request is unsavory).

I've found out it's pretty controversial to state I'll simply follow/friend a stranger if they follow me. Critics are saying only spammers and self promoters (I have one comment invoking the word "Realtor") do this. They say a large following makes it impossible for conversation. In theory, it's true. But frankly, I'm developing more quality relationships from Twitter and Facebook despite having a large following because new opportunities come in from my new networks daily. And of course, many of the ideas and relationships are coming from strangers, who then become acquaintances.

For real estate professionals building a community network, it seems natural to follow strangers who may be interested in watching or getting more information about you. After all, you never know whether there is a professional relationship in the future.

I discuss this at Media Transparent. Any thoughts about this?