Justin, I’ll check out the Jim Gilmore article for sure. Authenticity is an integral part of branding and one I never tire of exploring.

Ricardo, I am there with you. An auto message to new followers is great…but it doesn’t have to be inward-facing. New followers are friends and teachers in the making– not people to whom you’re trying to sell.

Again, thanks for the view! Heather

Then I’ve experienced those who do nothing more than engage in blatant self-promotion to which I respond with the following quote: “If you want to be boring, talk about yourself. If you want to be interesting, talk about something other than yourself.” — by Hugh MacLeod.

Anyway, I’m in agreement with you. The quickest and most effective way to interact and have impact is to move beyond the Retweet and speak what’s on your mind. Have an opinion! Your opinion matters. Share it.

Follow people with whom you might share a common interest and stay relevant when you tweet.

Just my thoughts on the subject…

Justin King

“And while there’s likely to be gems in there, I’m willing to forego their nuggets because I can’t stand all the noise.”

Good conversation – in any form – isn’t about noise. You have to shut up long enough to hear the other person speak. Where companies go wrong on Twitter is assuming that a “hello” is an invitation to thrust their wares in your face. But that doesn’t play in person, and I still can’t figure out why companies can’t figure that out online. They understand the etiquette at a cocktail party (most of the time), but because we’re all stuck behind a computer screen, we’re less deserving of their authentic connection.

In any case, I hope you keep talking and using YOUR inside voice to let these other folks benefit from your wise words. Thanks for being such a great part of the conversation.

Amber