Twitter Applied

It hasn’t failed to surprise me how many people don’t get an application like Twitter. I will concede that most of the “noise” on Twitter, not unlike much of the noise on the web is just that, “noise.” However, like the web, Gwitter like applications have potential to be more than the “Me-generations” platform for narcissistic self indulgence. I’ve started to see some fairly interesting uses of twitter for actual conversation and relaying useful information rather than simply telling everyone what you are doing right now (really, do we need to know you are having lunch?).

So I’ve looked around and pondered the question and here are a few ideas for getting something more out of Twitter and making the platform useful for all:

1. Ask a question about something you really need to know the answer to. Instead of “How is everyone today?” try “Has anyone seen the new Movie? How was it?”
2. Answer other people when they ask useful questions, ignore them when they don’t.
3. Get Local, connect with people who live where you do, the conversations will be more relevant to your daily life.
4. If you aren’t already, Tweet from your mobile phone, real-time is more relevant and the spontaneity more genuine.
5. Think of your tweet as a mini-blog, not a way to broadcast your every thought. Trust me, no matter how funny it is in your mind, it may not be to everyone else.
6. Twitter as a news source, spread timely info.
7. If you’re traveling, Twitter your location from time to time. It can be fun and is a good way for close family or friends to know where you are (I’ve done this on a couple long road trips and it’s helpful).
8. Twitter announcements like a press release, but do so sparingly otherwise people will stop paying attention.

This is hardly an all encompassing list but should get you started on some more practical uses for Twitter.