Twitter is a form of social media. Specifically, we refer to Twitter as a micro-blogging service (that is a very short blog). In fact each Twitter post can only be 140 characters long. What this typically means is that Twitter users Tweet more often as it is short and fast (a Tweet is an individual 140 character post).
What is interesting about Twitter is that unlike Facebook you don’t have to be friends with someone to follow them on Twitter. Therefore, you can keep up with experts, celebrities or friends and what they are thinking about. Because of this, people talk about Twitter being a news source.
The common criticism about Twitter is “why do I care that you’ve just had a coffee?”. However, the really successful people on Twitter tweet on topic. That is they might be an expert in bio-chemical engineering, software development, marketing or wine. By sharing their information or expertise, they demonstrate their professional capability and grow an audience of followers.
So with Twitter think about how you want to present yourself and what you can share.
Some twitter tips for beginners:
- Make sure you upload a picture of yourself; people like to know that a real person is behind the tweets
- Load up a profile that describes a little bit about what you do – but feel free to add in a bit of a personality. People will use this to decide if you’d be interesting to follow
- State where you live (regionally only) – this makes it easier for you to be found
- When you first tweet, make sure you post your first tweet as well saying that you’re new – people will welcome and introduce you
- Check out your @ messages on the right hand navigation – this is where you’ll easily see if anyone has tweeted you
- Don’t be afraid to give out some personal details, it helps make you seem more real and not just force feeding PR or brand messages. But do remember that there are times and places for information and don’t say anything you wouldn’t say to your own mother!
Finally, remember that Twitter is a participation sport – don’t just lurk, you won’t get it if you don’t get involved. You need to actively respond to people and join conversations to get the benefit from it. Once you start doing that you’ll realise how powerful a community it can be.
Author: Duncan Shand
