How can you use Twitter lists effectively? It’s easier than you think. Remember, once you’ve created a Twitter list, you can click on that list and see a stream of Tweets from only people on that list, NOT all of the tweeps you follow. Talk about managing your incoming firehose of information. Nice. Simple. A breath of fresh air.
Create lists that focus on keywords, or areas of expertise, or anything for that matter. And remember, you can make that list public so others can follow your list or private so only you are tracking that list.
For example, Design Spike uses the list we discussed yesterday, “helpful social media” (admittedly, not the best title, but I was working on the run. Don’t forget WGB, Web Goddess Boss, expects me to be doing billable work not just blogging =) to keep up with tweeps we either interact with regularly or those who dispense powerful good information. Others in the Twitterverse might find this list helpful therefore the public nature of the list.
My private list entitled “Vegas” is all about casinos and happenings in Vegas as I prepare for a trip. I could make it public, but perhaps I’d like to keep what will be happening in Vegas private…just sayin’.
What to do with Twitter lists (a few examples):
- Make local lists. Check out @blushresponse’s “Spokane list“. If you’re looking for quick 411 on Spokane, it’s a great list to follow.
- If you’re interested in a particular “something”, like, say beer, you might be interested in following @jamiemorgancda’s list called (this may shock you) “Beer“.
- And if you like interacting with public relations folks, think about following @lkissler’s list “PRSA“.
- One of the lists I find most useful is @DavidWells’ list of “Hubspotters“. It’s a quick easy way for me to see what is going down in the social media world at a glance.
How to benefit from lists:
- Check to see who has placed you on a list and reciprocate. Honor them as they honor you. Hey, they find your tweets useful, right? Bet their’s may be as well.
- Checking out lists that choose to follow you is a great way to engage (arghhhhhhhhhhh THAT word) with other people. Hey, you’ve got a friend and you didn’t even know it.
- Why not use your list for SEO. “Giving your public Twitter lists appropriate and optimized names can position them at the top of the search engine results pages.” (Social Media Today 5/29/10 How to use Twitter Lists to Promote Your Business)
- There are many other benefits….betting you can think of a few, can’t you?
So, get out there, make a list, check it twice, find out who’s useful and who’s not. Happy listing folkes.
Graphic via Dream Sequins, http://www.dreamsequins.com/
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