Do You Twitter?

Even if you’re not a webgeek, I’m almost certain that you’ve heard of Twitter. For those of you that have missed the recent buzz, here’s a quick primer:

Twitter is a micro-blogging service. To be precise, Twitter allows you to update your “status” in response to the question “What are you doing?”. There is also a huge social networking aspect to the site. You can update your status via the Twitter website, SMS text message, or a myriad of third-party programs. Your friends, or “followers” in Twitter-speak, are then notified of your new status. However, there’s more to Twitter than telling folks what you’re currently doing.

Some people question, rightly so, why anyone would take the time to update the site. I have felt the same way for quite a while. However, in the past month or so, I’ve really tried to use Twitter and am finding it a bit addictive. Here’s why:

It’s Quick:

You don’t have to spend too much time writing a full blog post. You’re limited to 140 characters, so you have to be brief.

It’s Easy:

What could be easier than 140 characters?

It’s Current:

I think this is the most vital part. Twitter is fast. Your updates are almost instant. You can search the entire site and quickly identify emerging trends and breaking news. When the US Airways plane crashed in the Hudson River, Twitter was the first source of breaking news. If you visit Twitter Search you can easily view breaking news and popular trends.

Google Loves Twitter:

If you search for me on Google, the fourth result is my Twitter homepage. For some users, you will see their Twitter page in position one or two.

OK, so you know why I like Twitter, but why, and how, can you make it useful?

Personally, I use TweetDeck, a great, if slightly overwhelming, desktop program. The default install shows you the status of all your friends, any replies to your messages, and any Direct Messages sent to you by your followers.

To become a real power user of TweetDeck, you need to set up a few searches. I currently have one for DMOZ, Beaufort, and triathlon. This allows me to see any posts that contain these words. I have about 200 friends and have trouble keeping up with their updates, so I generally only review my search tweets. By doing this, I can stay on top of any news related to a few hobbies and interests in real-time.

As a DMOZ editor, I use that search to answer any questions folks might have on getting listed or having submission problems. As a budding triathlete, I can view updates, breaking news, and new products for triathletes. As an example, I spent a lot of time yesterday shooting down a yellow journalism piece about triathlete deaths.

Notice that I don’t just read the tweets. To be a serious member of the community, you have to create value, not just consume information. If you sign up for Twitter and don’t engage in conversations, then you’re not being a good community member.

One of the more interesting uses of Twitter is a company called BinEndsWines. They publish reviews and tasting notes via their Twitter page and offer deals available only to their followers. This generates traffic to their webpage while creating value, that is discounts, to their followers.

How to Get Started on Twitter:

My recommendation is to download TweetDeck. Once installed, set up a few searches for your hobbies or interests. I’d recommend starting with unique interests, not Search Engine Optimization or Web Design. TweetDeck will display the 200 most recent posts containing your search term. Simply review the posts, maybe click on a profile or two if you find the tweet interesting, and start following people.

You can also check out WeFollow, a Twitter directory. WeFollow allows users to submit their names in up to three categories. Search for your interests or hobbies and you’ll find plenty of folks that believe they’re experts on, or at least interested in, those subjects. Most people will return the favor, that is, they will follow you after you follow them, so be prepared to start having a real conversation.

A word of caution: If you have no followers, are not following anyone, and don’t bother to post any updates, it’s highly unlikely anyone will follow you. On the surface, this is because you might be a spam account, but the deeper reason is that you don’t create value. If you’re not participating in the conversation, you’re not worth following. So, just as with a regular blog, don’t expect people to show up unless you have good, original content. So put a bit of time into your profile, your first dozen tweets or so, and your Twitter goals.

If you’re not already following me, you can view my Twitter profile here.

Anything I missed? Have a comment? Feel free to leave any feedback below. I always read and answer your comments and questions.