It's social.

First are foremost, 38minutes is a social network. It's not a place for posting drunken party photos or updating members on what you ate for lunch, but it is a space where people can network, collaborate, debate and hopefully celebrate.

It's a place to post opportunities and discover new ones, a place to blog about your passions, and a place to promote your work.

Although most of our membership is in Scotland, we have members in virtually every country in the world - well over 3,000 professionals working in the arts, media, education, technology, politics and more.

It's up to you.

We have a pretty hands-off approach to the network, because we believe any social network should be flexible to its members. That means you are free to post blogs, events, jobs and discussions without them being pre-approved. It also means we do little moderation - although there are of course some ground rules (see below).

It's also worth noting that 38minutes is run by volunteers. Its success depends on people having the motivation and passion to contribute. We are always looking for people to help - so whether you want to run a group, become a featured blogger or create an add-on (yes I'm hinting for a free app) do get in touch. We can't pay you, but you will get a warm fuzzy glow, and that's much better than a wad of notes, right? 

It's independent.

38minutes' hosting costs are generously funded by Stuart Cosgrove, Director of Creative Diversity at Channel 4, but the site remains independent and has no allegiances to any particular organisation. We are however grateful for Stuart's support, so must indulge his passion for St Johnstone FC and Detroit soul music. For a history of how 38minutes came into being, read this vintage post from Stuart. 

But it's not anarchy! We have some ground rules.

38minutes members are a very well-behaved bunch, and we have to do virtually no moderating. There are however some basic rules we would ask you to respect:

• Don't insult people or cause them to feel uncomfortable. This is not a place for virtual bullying or mud slinging and you will be banned.
• Don't use offensive language (the occasional swearword is fine, but four letter diatribes are not) or upload material that could offend people.
• Do promote the hell out of yourself! Blog about your successes and generally act as big headed as you like. But please do not post adverts on our blog pages. If you have a business win or piece of work to show off, write about it to your heart's content, but blatant advertising will be deleted.
• Do cross-post from your own blog. We love content, we need content, so we have no issue with you copying and pasting your latest blog on here, and adding a link to your site. Please don't however simply post a link saying 'read my blog' - that's just plain rude.

At a glance....

Blogs - For personal viewpoints and industry commentary. Please add an image and tags wherever possible. 

Events - Does what it says on the tin. You're welcome to blog your event, but make sure you also formally list it as an event. 

Jobs - Also known as 'Wanted' group, this is one of the most popular areas of the site. Join the group to add opportunities and respond to posts. 

Groups - These are arranged by topic and regularly updated by their owner. Please do not add your company as a group - instead, join a group for your industry. If you wish, you could create a separate membership using your business name and promote your stuff on its profile page. If you want to create a group, go for it! But bear in mind it will need to be regularly updated and relevant to the site. 

Directory - Join the Group to be added to the Directory. Unfortunately we don't have the ability on this Ning platform to let you automatically add yourself, but leave a comment with your company name and category, and one of our volunteers will add you to the list. 

Photos and Videos - One of the most neglected areas of the site. Get your portfolio up there and start promoting your work! 

Image: Katy Mutton on Central Station