Over the weekend my wife and I spent about an hour or so explaining Twitter to a couple of our friends. He is a youth minister and I was explaining not only what Twitter was, but how it might be beneficial to his ministry.
The “this seems crazy” or “I’m totally out of the loop” stares went eventually to some basic understanding of how it works and how it might be beneficial. I’m pretty sure he is sold and will be using it soon.
It’s hard to explain Twitter in a few bullet points (or maybe that’s just me). I prefer to use narrative (tell a story of how it was used effectively) to make my point.
I think that’s why this video makes me laugh so much…because all of us who use Twitter know how effective a tool it is and just how fun it can also be. But if we are honest with ourselves, it takes a bit of time and practice to get the hang of it.
Twitter is a participatory online/social media tool that one can only grasp if they are using it…and for everyone else…well, we just look crazy.
In 140 Characters or less, how would you explain Twitter to someone in your own/original words?
This is still the best explanation in my opinion…not 140 characters, but effective.
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@jasondtaylor
Great post Rhett, was cracking up on the first video. I agree, second video is very helpful as a primer. Unfortunately they need to do a second one that focuses on using twitter not just for the “social update” piece but almost a next step which is of course to add value in other ways too. I’ll have to look and see if they’ve got one. The commoncraft guys are awesome!
Awesome post. Loved it. I plan to post the videos on facebook. I don’t think any of my co-workers use this!
I just discovered the Daily Show on Hulu yesterday and saw this piece. Loved it. Then was offended that they miss the point of connection/conversations. Then remembered it’s the Daily Show and I need to lighten up. Then enjoyed it again.
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