Twitter has taken the world by storm. It is a social and business networking platform that boasts tens of millions of users, and has been operating since 2006.
Twitter is essentially a micro-blog. You sign up for an account (much like with Facebook or any other network). It is free, only takes a few minutes and then you can get tweeting. The beauty of twitter is that entries (tweets) have to be concise – just 140 characters, so it is fast, to the point and easy to use.
Once you start tweeting, it can become an addictive challenge, figuring out how to get your message across in just a few words.
From small beginnings
Originally designed as a social network, to keep friends and family up to date on what you're doing, Twitter has expanded into a powerful marketing and news tool. It is free to use, and if you have a project or information to share, it can be a powerful way to get your message out into the world.
When it first launched, Twitter was greeted with some skepticism – why would anyone want to be limited to 140 characters? Who needs another way to keep in touch? However, the platform quickly proved its critics wrong.
If you are brand new to the world of Twitter, one of the best ways to use it is as a news source. All the major news organisations worldwide have Twitter accounts. Simply follow your favourites and you will always be up to date with the latest developments around the world. Emergency services send out notifications on Twitter, which can be very useful for your safety and convenience (eg road closures).
Start as a follower
Search and follow people and organisations who interest you and their tweets will appear on your feed. Think of your favourite columnist, sportsperson, actor, personality or entrepreneur. Once you have something to say, you can start tweeting yourself. You can gain followers from those you follow, or by connecting with friends. It is an amazing network.
You can install a Twitter application on your smartphone or computer and keep in touch remotely.
Twitter can be ‘synced’ with other programmes such as Facebook, blogs or email to keep you in touch. For more information and to get started, click www.twitter.com.