Social Marketing Phenom - Twitter
Not too long ago “twitter dee, tweetle dum” was a whimsical saying that didn’t really have a whole lot of meaning. But now, “twitter” and “tweet” represent a whole new way of communicating on the Internet.
So what’s a-Twitter?
According to the New York Times, “it’s one of the fastest-growing phenomena on the Internet.” Wired says “it’s almost like ESP.” According to its own website, Twitter says it is a service for friends, family, and co–workers to communicate and stay connected through the exchange of quick, frequent answers to one simple question: “What are you doing?”
More specifically, Twitter is a free social networking and micro-blogging service that allows you to send and read updates (otherwise known as “tweets”) from friends, colleagues, and other people you are “following.” They are text-based posts of up to 140 characters in length that are displayed on your profile page and delivered to others who have signed up to receive them. You can restrict delivery to your circle of “friends” or allow anyone who’s interested in following you to read what you’re up to. You can receive updates via the Twitter website, instant messaging, SMS, RSS, email or through an application such as Twitterrific, Twhirl or Facebook.
I was first introduced to Twitter when I participated in the Thirty Day Challenge. It was used as a way for participants and teams to keep up-to-date with the latest info and resources available as well as to stay connected with team members and other 30 Day Challengers.
Initially I thought, “Great (not really)! Here’s another thing I’m going to have to keep updated in addition to my website, my blog, Facebook page, Squidoo lens…you get the picture. But after signing up and downloading the Twhirl software, I was hooked.
Why? Not only was it a quick and easy way to get the latest information, I loved the access that it gave to people you normally don’t have access to. According to the creators, it’s a great way to keep in touch with family and friends. But I find it a very effective tool to keep in the loop with industry experts, gurus, and colleagues. It even has functionality for you to contact (tweet) the experts/gurus you’re following. Now how cool is that? You don’t want to overdo it or they can block you, but if you use it responsibly the access is incredible.
So give Twitter a try! Whether it’s to let your friends know what you’re doing or to follow a business expert or colleague, you’ll quickly become a fan.
Now off to “twitter Dee and tweet ‘ol Don” 
btw - follow me on Twitter: Susan_Smith
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Tags: social marketing, tweet, twitter, web2.0
September 30th, 2008 at 1:39 pm
Help! I’ve become a Tweeter addict. It’s so much fun I can’t help myself, and you’re right about getting a first hand look into the lives of Industry Leaders. You’d be amazed at the number of “Gurus” on Twitter. Loving it!
October 2nd, 2008 at 7:21 am
Do you Twitter? Do you have a website or blog? Help yourself to a Twitter badge compliments of Women’s Work ;-).
October 3rd, 2008 at 4:59 pm
I have been twittering for a while, but have not used twhirl, will have to give a try thanks!
October 28th, 2008 at 8:18 pm
Many have been in to the Twitter craze for sometime now. But is it necessary to use for your small business? I found this great article in Grabbinggreen.com about whether your small business should be part of the Twitter craze. http://grabbinggreen.com/home/free-resources