A Twitter Guide for Beginners

First it was MySpace. Then it was Facebook. And now, tweets are being heard from one of the newest social interfaces, Twitter. Twitter is short, sweet and to the point. It may seem overwhelming at first, but in all actuality, it is very simple to use. By keeping just a few general tips in mind, you too will be tweeting along with everybody else.

When you first sign up for Twitter, use an avatar to represent your user I.D. If you are comfortable with showing your photo online, then you can upload a clear photo of your face. Although, if you would rather not show your personal photo, then use an avatar that represents a part of your personality. For example, if you enjoy trips to Florida, then use an image of Florida. Or if you are selling specific items such as clothing or jewelry, upload a photo of one of your products. Make sure that the photo is clear enough for other users to see.

After your upload your avatar, type a few words about yourself or your business. This will help other users see you as a person which will make them feel safer about following you. It doesn't have to be a long description. Think of a few simple sentences that you can use to describe why you are on Twitter and use those for a profile statement.

As you begin tweeting, don't just use one word tweets. Be sure that you use complete sentences with proper grammar and punctuation. While it is just another social network, you do still want to appear educated. Also it is hard to read a tweet without any periods or commas. If you want people to see your "tweet" type it so others can view it.

While it is tempting, you do not have to follow a large number of people right away. Get used to the user interface of Twitter first and begin by following only those that you are familiar with. Also, if you start to follow many people at once, and they don't follow you back, it could make your account look suspicious.

Twitter is not a race. There is no reason to have to hurry to start following people. Find friends whom you know on Twitter. If you have other social networks such as Facebook that you participate on, ask them if they use Twitter. If so, then find out their I.D, so that you can follow them. Once you start following those you know, your number will increase, and others may start asking to follow you too.

Do not spam Twitter. When someone asks to follow you, do not bombard them with links to your website, auctions or business. Try to appeal to the users on Twitter by posting quotes, facts, opinions on news stories or even talk about the weather. Or if you are trying to market specific items or services, find facts and stories that are similar. Type appealing posts so others want to read more about you.

Twitter can be fun and useful. It is great for social networking and marketing. By keeping some of these tips in minds, you can learn how to use Twitter the proper way and attract new followers.