Do it: Twitter

Do you tweet? Are you a member of the Twitter-verse?

I've been on Twitter for nearly two years though at first it was simply because of my job (I'm in public relations in my "real life"). But now, my personal self just loves it. While yes, it's another thing to keep up with, it's easy and totally worth it. I know most of my friends keep just to Facebook when talking social media but if you're not on Twitter, you're seriously missing out... in more ways than one.

First: mindless rants of celebs. Follow Lea Michelle from Glee, Kim Kardashian, Ellen DeGeneres, chef Bobby Flay, Alyson Hannigan and soooo many more! If you have someone in mind, chances on they're on Twitter. You can't read the latest crazy happenings of Kanye West on your Facebook account. The easiest way to find someone is to search on Twitter or even do a Google search (person's name, twitter). Trust me, it's fun to read what they're up on a daily basis. Makes everyone much more accessible. I tweet to Bethenney from the Real Housewives of NYC, the editor of Glamour magazine and more.

Second, want faster customer service? Tweet! Most big companies are on Twitter (ATT, Starbucks, Southwest, etc) so if you're not getting what you need send them a tweet with your complaint.  If you don't know they're name, no worries. Most companies also monitor Twitter for keywords and respond. I always get instant responses rom the big names.

Third, discounts! A newer trend, we've noticed companies are starting to provide discounts on Twitter. Check out Tiny Prints -- a fabulous modern stationary web site -- because when you become a 'fan' they respond with a coupon for $15 off $50 or more. Great deal. Plus, many companies like airlines, restaurants, etc offer Twitter-only discounts. I'm also among the first to know when a store is having a sale just because others are filling me in.

Fourth, instant news.... mixed in with the fun. Follow CNN Breaking News, USA Today, your local daily newspaper and your favorite news sites (they're all on Twitter, promise) for the latest news.

Fifth: I'm on there! Find me at @avggirlsguide. Best reason of all, right? :) That's why I saved the best for last.


And, that's just how it works. You put the @ symbol before someone's name when writing or responding to them and if you want to forward what you're reading about someone you simply stick a RT (re-tweet) in front of it. Want to send a personal message to someone? Just put a DM (direct message) in front of it. DMs are not especially common, though; most engage in a few back and forths in the twittersphere where everyone can see. And, remember that everything you write is limited to 140 characters. Really gets you focused on what you want to say! No blathering on and on.... and on and on....