After sending an e-mail to a friend today on how to get started on Twitter, I thought it might not hurt to provide a few tips for anyone who's looking to get started (or has started but can't quite figure out what to do next.) I'm by no means an expert -- look to people like Chris Brogan, Doug Haslam, Laura "Pistachio" Fitton, Scott Monty or Jeremiah Owyang if you want folks that are the true gurus - but I've been at this for several months and have learned a few things along the way.

First, I'll give you the first WIIFM or "what's in it for me" assuming you are following the right people (and at least a few are following your back):

• Updates on tons of helpful information (industry research, relevant blog posts, breaking news) all at your finger tips
• An instant polling device
• Great network builder
• Good way to share your latest blog posts/podcasts.
  NOTE: it's important to remember that like with community, it's a two way street. People are more inclined to pay attention to your message if you share other people's posts and reciprocate when they post.
• Potential for recruiting or being recruited
• Thought leadership builder

Now, how do you get started:

• Sign up at Twitter.com
• Make sure you update your profile with a pic (any pic) and a URL where people can find out more about you or your company. For most people, they point directly to their blog.
• Post several times (even if nobody is following you yet) about interesting posts you've read recently, good research, etc. - people are more inclined to follow if you've said something first.
• Start by following people friends or co-workers (I started with my friend Francois.) Just click on the links of who they are following and then select the "follow" button on under their picture.
• To direct a comment at someone, use the "@" symbol before their name e.g. "@astrout, thanks for the helpful post on how to use Twitter"
• If you want to reference a URL, be sure to shorten it first using Tinyurl.com (like text messaging on your phone, you only get 140 characters so shorter is better.)
  NOTE: some twitter applications like Twhirl and Snitter will shorten your URLs for you - I sometimes prefer the old fashioned way.
• When I post on my blog (or even comment on others' blogs), I try and always leave my Twitter name "@astrout" so if people like what I've said, they can continue the conversation on Twitter. I also include my Twitter name in my e-mail auto-signature.

Put any questions your have (or DM/e-mail me) in the comments. Chances are if you don't know the answer, others are wondering too.

Aaron Strout @astrout

UPDATED 4/17:

• Having used two Twitter clients, Snitter and Twhirl, I would highly recommend that people consider using one because of the auto-refresh features.
• Several other posts on good tools to use have cropped up since I posted this article including a list from Marnie Webb and most recently, Shara Karasic on her del.icio.us account.
• If you haven't checked out Twitter Packs, you should. It's a decent list of who's interested in what on Twitter - feel free to add yourself!