Wait, Wait, Wait...Start at the Beginning. What's Twitter? Why Tweet?

I've been bombarded by nonprofits lately that missed the first Twitter boat.  They're wondering what it is and why they should be doing it, but they're asking quietly.  At this point, if you aren't Tweeting for your cause, chances are you're either:

A) a little embarrassed about it, not knowing the in's and out's of it OR

B)  you're pretty proud of it, thinking this is one ship that can sail without you.

If you do want to check out Twitter and the potential uses for your nonprofit, I want to give you a few good places to start. It's nothing to be embarrassed about if you're not doing it already.  As nonprofit communicators, we have to get into things carefully, staying mindful that how we spend our time is a reflection of how we use our precious cause's resources.

First, read Chris Brogan's low down on what Twitter is. You can enjoy it from the privacy of your own desktop, without anyone knowing.

Secondly, try out these blog postings that outline some uses of Twitter for nonprofits: 

• Twitter as Charitable Giving Spreader (Beth's Blog)
• Fundraising at the Speed of Twitter (Chronicle of Philanthropy)
• Twitter for Nonprofits(The Fundraising Coach)

Now check this out. It's a great post with a few examples of nonprofits that are using Twitter creatively/ effectively.

Want to get your feet wet?  Set up an account and start tweeting.  A plan with all of the standards is important:  who you're trying to reach and why, your audience goals, etc.  But if you spend too much time trying to map out a carefully written plan, you might just miss the point.

Give it a whirl, follow others on Twitter, use it as a tool for listening.  Don't spend all of your time on it, but carve out 20 minutes or so each day to get going on it. I'm looking forward to the possibilities with my organization, as someone who IS just getting started.

-Susie Bowie, the Nonprofit Perspective

Comments

[Emily Sperling]

Thanks for the great resources. I’m somewhere between at Tweeter and a Twater, and quite frankly, it has me in a Twither!
My affection for Twitter is growing. Though very, very, very slowly.

I find it hard to find people to follow. Meaning, of course it is easy to fine Lance Armstrong or the like, but what about the people I don’t know are on Twitter or that I don’t know I should be following?! One of the things I love about Facebook is that it makes it easy to find people to connect with –either by network, actual name, keywords or through their programmed suggestions.

Also, something about Twitter seems so one-way. Other forums make it easier to start a dialog in true two-way communication style. Perhaps I’m just not “properly” using the tool.

What I do love about Twitter is the fact that most of the people that are following our organization –the Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County –on Twitter are not our known stakeholders. A PR girls dream –new people with whom to communicate!--Emily www.twitter.com/edcsarasota

[Maggie Pugh]

It's a brave new world out there, we just need to deep our toes into the uncharted waters and imagine the possibilities. Thanks for listing some additional resources to check out. Can't wait to start tweetin'.

[Suzanne]

I think your idea of 20 minutes a day is a pretty good rule of thumb.