I've been Twittering for a few weeks now. It's a fascinating platform for social networking both for individuals and for businesses. One of the things I've discovered is that, like the rest of the world, Twitter is filled with all kinds of people. I like to use the search engine, putting in my favorite words and look for folks who seem especially intriguing to me. I follow a wide variety of people from chefs to nuns to CEO's. I like updates that run the gamut of my interests.
For anyone who doesn't know what Twitter is, check out www.twitter.com . It is essentially a way to stay connected to those who "follow" you by using very short statements that people can quickly read. I am, by no means, an expert on Twitter, but I do understand that the underlying premise of having people follow you is in the idea of reciprocity. I follow you and in turn, if inspired, you follow me too. There are many layers to this, of course, but that is the fundamental concept on Twitter.
So I am a little surprised and somewhat irked at those who constantly self-promote on Twitter. I do understand the idea is for visibility, but it seems to me that there is a fine line between marketing your services and self-absorption. I also get that people are seemingly generous with their services, but most times isn't there a return on their marketing efforts?
Don't get me wrong ... I understand we all need visibility, clients, customers, etc. It's the attitude that bugs me. When people are trying to shove their stuff in my inbox without asking and making the assumption that they can change my life with their one super product, I am a little put off. It's like a really bad networking event where people are trying to shove their business cards into your hand and moving on to their next target after thirty seconds of shallow conversation. Yuck. I need a shower just thinking about it.
We must be cautious that our quest for self-actualization doesn't become a quest of self-absorption. - Loretta LaRoche
There is that old law of people doing business with those they know, those they like, and those they trust. I find few Twitterers take the time to actually build that type of relationship. Maybe it's just me, but I need more value in my relationships. Engage with me! That is my goal on Twitter. Even if I never have thousands of followers, my goal is to build real relationships that are founded on integrity and mutual respect.
Call me crazy but I think that is possible. That is how I want Twitter to work for me. Your thoughts?
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