Twitter is a website that allows members to send short posts that are both published on the member's Twitter page and sent directly to those who choose to "follow" the Twitter member. The site's posts, called Tweets, are sometimes referred to as micro-blogging, with the member's Twitter page constituting a blog.
The site is also considered to be a social networking site like FaceBook because of the followers function. That nature of the site lends itself to many different types of uses, each appealing to different demographics of Twitter members.
Twitter and other social networking websites have the reputation for catering to teenagers who want to keep track of their friends. In reality, Twitter is not widely used by teens and is growing rapidly in several older demographics. According to Nielsen research, only 16 percent of Twitter users are 24 and younger.
Among the largest demographics is the 55 and over group, making up 20 percent of the total number of Twitter users. The elderly enjoy the ease of sending Tweets, and members as old as 104 regularly send messages through the site.
The vast majority of Twitter users, 64 percent, are between the ages of 26 and 54. Rather than a teen social networking site, Twitter is actually widely utilized for online advertising, social networking between adults and an easy way for celebrities and fans to interact.
Social Networking Tools
One of the useful functions of Twitter is for using the same social networking tools that have made sites like MySpace wildly popular. Twitter members create a profile on their Twitter page, complete with a picture if they choose. Members can follow other members' Tweets and have other members follow theirs.
Business Blogs
The social networking aspect of Twitter combined with the premise of micro-blogging makes the site the perfect place for businesses to set up business blogs. These allow companies to keep their customer base apprised of new products, sales and other information. This is free online advertising for companies who send marketing messages to followers.
Another version of Twitter business blogs are celebrities who build up their fan base by sending out both personal and professional Twitter messages. Many celebrity Twitter members use Twitter to connect with fans, answering their questions and greeting followers. A mix of personal and promotional messages often attracts legions of followers for celebrity members. A number of celebrities have attracted more than a million followers, creating the perfect audience for targeted promotional messages about new projects and appearances.
Online Business Networking
This type of online business networking is increasingly being integrated into business websites, providing a way for customers to find out about website changes as well as company news. Perhaps best of all, Twitter provides online business networking that is free and easy to do, allowing another online advertising opportunity that may be seen by millions.
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