GenYNetworking.com

Is There Intelligent Life on Twitter?

“I don’t care what people are having for lunch or where they’re going.”

Many Gen Y’ers have said that very statement about Twitter, but stop and think for a moment. That’s pretty much all anyone discusses on the biggest social network of our time (so far), Facebook. We spend hours (sometimes several a day, depending on whether or not our offices block it) browsing the site, mindlessly “liking” each others’ statuses and checking out your ex’s new flame. (Seriously, you know you’re done it.)

So why are we so quick to dismiss Twitter?

I’ve been using Twitter since 2008, and actively since early 2009. Why did I delete my account for a few months? Quite frankly, it took me awhile to realize its value. In addition to keeping in touch with distant friends (which Facebook also allows), Twitter allows us to pick and choose exactly whom we want to follow. No matter what your interests, there’s someone on Twitter for you to follow and probably learn from.

“But, Shannon,” you’re probably thinking, “I know all this. I don’t have time for Twitter.”

I agree that Twitter isn’t for everyone, but I think some people still don’t realize that Twitter is more than a discussion about someone’s preferred breakfast choice.

For example, I run the Twitter account for the software company I work for. We provide software to membership and trade organizations. Every Tuesday at 2 p.m. ET, association professionals on Twitter participate in Association Chat. They follow the conversation by using the hashtag #assnchat. (Go ahead and make the jokes, everyone else has.)

(Yes, the times are off. #assnchat meets at 2 p.m. ET.)

No matter which industry you work in, or desire to work in, there’s probably a Twitter chat. Check out the schedule (which is a Google spreadsheet) and see if any pique your interest.

Basically, Twitter gives us access to people and companies whom we wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to meet. Got a customer service issue? The company is question is probably on Twitter, and it’s someone’s job to handle complaints received there. Many Twitter accounts even compile job listings for certain cities, so it’s easy to get them all sent straight to your smart phone.

Sure, Twitter’s not for everyone. But before you dismiss it as simply “mindless drivel,” give it a shot. There’s nothing to lose, and you may even find some intelligent conversations taking place. You just have to know how to sort through the mess.