Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Random ideas about Twitter

Twitter is my new favorite social media. I like shiny things, so this probably won't last forever, but for now Twitter gets the bulk of my social media attention.

If you're totally new to Twitter, read this.

People I know that aren't on Twitter keep asking me what's the big deal, so I thought I'd share some ideas.

Four reasons why I like Twitter:

1. Twitter keeps you in constant contact with people. Not like a "networking" event where you meet, chat, then don't see them again for another month.

2. Twitter is a great way to meet new people in real life. I've met at least 10 people face to face in the last month that I first "met" on Twitter.

3. Twitter is funny. Two favorites from today (a horribly snowy day in C-bus):
@Jason_WCMH: Did you guys know it snowed today?
@Jason_WCMH: Well if you didn't, watch our news so we can tell you its snowed and traffic was bad. We have 4 people to tell you live.

@InsoOutso:
All of this ice and me without liquor.

4. Twitter is helpful. I've learned about new books, news stories, gotten restaurant recommendations, and ideas for stories that I never would have heard about if it weren't for Twitter.

If you're going to start Twittering, here are my four tips:

1. Don't be your company. Be yourself. Twitter is a conversation.

2. Use a real (or funny or creative) picture. Company logos are boring. See point 1.

3. It's not fun without friends. Start following people and join the convo.

4. Answer people. Ask questions. Share interesting tidbits (not sales pitches).

Happy Twittering!