Twitter is changing everything

Some of you might read that headline and say, “Well, duh!”  This post is not for you.

For the rest of you, especially those who are skeptical about the practical uses for Twitter, this post is for you.

Twitter, the widely publicized social media Web site, is changing the way we communicate in many ways.

Right now, Lance Armstrong is racing in the Tour de France, going for his eighth Maillot jaune.  Every day, before and after the race, Armstrong comments on the day on his Twitter page.  Anyone can get an inside perspective on the race, directly from the man himself!

Talk about a new way to follow sports!  Could you have imagined this even a year ago?  Sure, Twitter doesn’t replace watching the event on television, but it provides one heck of a supplement.

How else is Twitter changing the world?

• Home Depot uses Twitter to engage disgruntled customers and set things right.
• The Iron Horse Hotel provides updates on events, specials and attractions.
• The Onion drives traffic to its site with irresistible headlines.
• Editors from Hanley Wood solicit input for their stories, then promote their stories to their followers.

How can you use Twitter for your business?  That’s up to you.  Every business is different, so there are no real templates to follow.  The way to start is just jump in.  Take a month or two to see how it works, and soon a real business use will present itself.

Of course, you’re welcome to follow me.