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Hard-Hat How-To: Twitter

June 22, 2009

In this edition of Hard-Hat How-To, Plant Services will help guide you through the Tweet-tastic world of Twitter.

Over the past year, Twitter has grown from a youth-driven novelty to a social networking necessity. Despite it’s massive media coverage, many people still don’t understand the importance or function of this microblogging site. In this edition of Hard-Hat How-To, Plant Services will help guide you through the Tweet-tastic world of Twitter.

First, go to www.Twitter.com. If you already have an account, you can log in on the right-hand side of the screen using your username and password.

If you need to create an account, click the green “Get Started—Join” button in the middle of the screen.

Next, type your full name, username, password and e-mail address into the spaces provided. Be sure to select a username that reflects your online personality without divulging too much personal information. If the username you have selected is already in use, a prompt will let you know. Try modifying your original username with extra letters or numbers to create a unique account.

Once you have entered the necessary information, click the green “Create my account” arrow, and you will be redirected to your personal Twitter page.

Now you’re ready to start connecting with people, companies and organizations on Twitter. Click the "Find People" link at the top of your screen to access Twitter’s search function.

If you type "Plant Services" into the search bar and click search, a brief summary of our Twitter site, complete with icon, bio and username, will appear on your screen.

If you click on the highlighted "PlantServices" link, it will take you to our Twitter page. Our messages, or Tweets, will appear in the center column, complete with timestamps. The left-hand column highlights the features of PlantServices.com, while the right-hand column displays our Twitter stats, including our loyal followers.

When you've found a person, brand or company you want to follow, click the "Follow" button that appears beneath the user's icon.

If you’re ready to post your first Tweet, simply type your message into the “What are you doing?" box that appears at the top of your Twitter homepage. A countdown meter will tell you how many characters remain of the 140 you're allowed. Click the "Update" button when you're finished.