Twitter isn't the only microblogging service on the Web. It's not even the best microblogging service on the Web.
In Twitter Power, I describe a number of sites that also let members post short notes to tell friends and followers what they're up to. Plurk, for example, is alive and kicking, and it looks great. It has neat icons, a clever, horizontal timeline and all sorts of add-ons and gizmos that make it look a lot of fun to play with.
But hardly anyone uses it.
That's because Twitter has something that's essential for microblogging and it's something that other similar sites don't have: critical mass.
Because Twitter is so simple to use, lots of people began using it. And because lots of people were using it, everyone benefited. Communities began to form, conversations took place and information began to be exchanged.
That's what Twitter is all about.
But the community that makes Twitter such a special place can also be off-putting for new members. It's like being the new guy at work. Everyone's standing around the watercooler chatting, and you're not sure how to join the conversation.
There are two solutions, and if you're new to Twitter, you should be doing both.
The first is to bring people with you. It's always much easier to go to a party with friends than to go alone. So tell your Facebook friends that you're now on Twitter and encourage your offline friends to join too. They don't have to be professional connections. Even your social contacts will help to keep your timeline active and give you a new way to stay in touch.
And the professional connections you'll be making on Twitter will see that you're human and friendly, just like them.
The second thing you can do is jump right in.
Post comments, ask questions and retweet. Don't be concerned if the person you're asking doesn't answer. People with lots of followers can't answer every tweet they receive (although you can be sure they read as many as they can.) And remember, you can always delete tweets later if you want.
Tweet regularly, especially about your line of business, and you should find that your followers grow and you start to build a whole new community around you. It won't be long before you're the king or queen of your watercooler.
It's Del.icio.us!
Furl It!
October 9, 2009 04:57 PM
Lol I love the analogy of everyone being around the water cooler chatting away, and as the newbie you're hovering, trying to find a way to contribute. This is EXACTLY how I felt when I started Tweeting. Then I saw all these #FollowFriday and RT@ and hash tags and that's when I REALLY felt like the outsider. Not only were the cool kids around the cooler chatting, they were also speaking a totally different language to me! What worked for me is what you suggested Joel and just jumped straight in. I started posting an organising tip of the day and re-tweeting other organisers' tips and then it all kinda took off!
Not sure if I'm one of the kings of the watercooler yet though...but I'm working on it!
October 12, 2009 12:54 PM
Joel, thanks for the great advice. It does take time. I really had not thought about inviting my facebook and other social networking sites to follow me on Twitter. Neglecting the obvious! I appreciate your sage words :)
October 14, 2009 12:35 AM
What an anology, man!Watercooler...
You know I have analogy about that starting & jumping into conversation: jump into water...you'll learn to swim anyways.
I truly believe in your suggestions.