Twitter Storm

Twitter is currently the fastest growing social networking site, growing an unheard of 600% in 2008 with four to five million users. Avid users are quick to extol all its virtues; non-users usually look perplexed at the relevance of a Web site based on simply answering the question "What are you doing?" in 140 characters or less.

The truth is, Twitter is becoming extremely valuable to businesses, organizations and nonprofits especially when integrated into existing communication, marketing and development strategies. Here's why:

• Ability to connect with current and potential customers/supporters
  
• Raise awareness of your brand, products and/or services
  
• Share stories, anecdotes and quotes from your industry
• Engage in meaningful, two-way discussions

But there is a caveat. In order to experience all the benefits of Twitter, you must obey some of the unwritten Twitter rules:

• Listen first. Great explanation of why here.
  
• Do not spam. Twitter is about sharing and conversing. If all you do is self-promote your company, product or service, you will lose, not gain, followers.
• Be yourself. Some companies have success using their corporate brand name and logo as their Twitter account. I believe people would rather connect with people, not brands, so consider using a real person within your organization as the "face" of your Twitter account.
  
• Be authentic. Speak honestly. Be willing to lose control of your marketing message. It's okay. Really.
  
• Be passionate. Nothing is as infectious as true passion for a cause, a product or a service.

Still skeptical? Here's how a few organizations leveraged Twitter and the influence of their followers:
Houston coffee shop increases business via Twitter
The Blood Center of Central Texas increases blood donations via "Tweet Up"
Governments use Twitter for emergency alerts and more

So, what are you doing to create your own Twitter storm?