So Many Moms on Twitter!

This post is long overdue without a doubt.  One of my favorite ways to connect with other moms also happens to be the hardest one to explain.  I'll try to give it a shot though.  Twitter has helped me connect with so many insightful, hilarious, and supportive moms that it has become one of the social networks I use on a daily basis.  OK, let's face it, I'm on Twitter several times a day.

Referred to as a microblogging platform, to me, Twitter is so much more than that.  I originally signed up for Twitter last fall, the first time I heard about it, but gave up on it before I even had a chance to really see what it is all about.  Then when I launched this blog, Moms Group Manual, I decided to try again so that I could connect with other Mom bloggers.  You see, I don't have many friends who blog or who are passionate social media.  I was hoping Twitter could be a catalyst to meet other like-minded moms.  And how! 

Twitter has not only connected me with, shall we say, kinda geeky moms like myself, but I've met so many moms that I might not have otherwise met in my day-to-day life.  You see, there are Moms on Twitter from all over the world, from all walks of life, and with different points of view. 

So how exactly does Twitter work?  When you first sign up it might seem a little confusing.  In fact, you might ask yourself why you'd follow some of these people and heck, why they'd follow you.  My advice?  Start slowly.  Use the search box on Twitter to use keywords to find others that share the same interests as you.  You might be surprised at the profiles that jump out at you.  Once you've followed a few people, read what they have to say and then weigh in with your opinion.  Before you know it, you'll be engaged in compelling conversations and hysterical banter.  I've found myself supporting a fellow twitter friend as they struggle with a personal problem, being part of a 35-twitter friend  strong inside joke, and helping to spread the word about a twitter friend's newest project or blog launch.   Twitter, to me is all about relationships and conversation.  It is about learning from those who are different from you and bonding with those who share the same goals.  Oh, and the catch?  Every tweet (update) has to be less than 140 characters.  That's right.  Personally, I like this because it forces me to filter what I say and keep it short and sweet.

There's no doubt in mind that I will meet in person some of the friends I've made through Twitter.  In fact, I am willing to bet that everyday there's a "Tweetup" going on somewhere.  But remember, Twitter is really what you make of it and it can lead to friendships, new ideas, and even new opportunities.

Follow me on Twitter @JessicaKnows.

Comments

[Bonnie Sayers]

Nice overview on Twitter. I just learned of it last month. Last year at this time I was busy conversing on CafeMom but got burnt out on that after the holidays.

[Minjae]

Thanks so much for mentioning my humble blog, Jessica! I'm really glad we connected and looking forward more Tweets. :)

[Dawn Gardner]

I do follow you on twitter! I'm PinkDawn

[Amy Miyamoto]

I love your post on the deeper value of relationship building on Twitter. When I was first introduced to it several months back, I didn't quite get the power and potential of how being an active participant on Twitter could lead to some very dynamic and rewarding personal relationships as well as professional opportunities. I have been pleasantly surprised at how quickly connections and friendships can be created when really coming from a place of authentic curiosity and service. I have a whole new layer of appreciationfor the power of networking in general, particularly via social media. Bravo! ;)
Amy