Tech Tip: Say Yes to Twitter

TECH TIP

SAY YES TO TWITTER

There is more to Twitter than sharing what you had for lunch. It is a great way to share your interests and stay connected to what you care about.

THE PROBLEM

You hear Twitter mentioned often, but you don’t know why or even how you would use it.

THE FIX

Dive in!

HOW TO DO IT

Twitter is a microblogging site used by millions of people globally. Microblogging is sending live messages, called tweets, from Web-enabled devices. It’s called “micro” because you are allowed only 140 characters per message.

image
  1. Entertainment. Many actors, bands, sports teams, and authors often have Twitter accounts to notify their fans of upcoming events and news or share pictures and great jokes.
  2. Education. Following leaders in your chosen field helps you stay up-to-date on current issues and gives you the chance to interact with experts. Some instructors are even using Twitter in class as a way for you to engage with course material online.
  3. Job Hunting. Following the official Twitter feed of organizations you want to work for can lead to instant notification of new job opportunities.
  4. Community involvement. Twitter allows for global conversations on important issues. For example, Twitter was a key component in the Arab Spring of 2011–2012, a period that saw dozens of political demonstrations and revolutionary movements across a wide range of the Arab world. Live tweeting is very common and allows for international exchange of information in real time.