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Twitter users love results and there is an abundance of tools to appease them - but are they really working?  Answer:  yes AND no!

Let's take a look at Klout:  Klout is a Twitter analytics tool, "measuring influence across the social web".  It's free to try and you can sign in using your Twitter login.

I discovered Klout through Sponsored Tweets.  ST uses Klout in measuring the value of their tweeters.  I see it more commonly now and decided to give it another test drive.

What it does:  Klout has a ton of measuring features starting with an overall influence score down to how to improve in certain areas.  They break down Tweeters into four quadrant types and chart influence based on engagement, velocity, reach, demand and activity.  They show who you're losing influence with, who you are gaining influence with , who you influence and who influences you.  They also offer an analysis showing gains and losses in percentages in specific categories and suggestions on how to improve those areas.

I like the concept, it's interesting, easy to navigate and gives lots of information.  However, after several updates it's still measuring my links and activity from November!  So like I always say there are many neat tools to try but keep in my mind - NONE are 100% accurate and all susceptible to glitches. 

Twitter tools are like a placebo.  If you "think" it's working then it's working!  If you get a low score; don't toss out your perch and close up shop  - take it with a grain of birdseed and try again another time!

http://tweepml.org/

TweepML is a great application that I use to create lists of Twitter users to share!  The application makes it easy for people to follow everyone on the list with a single click or you can select only the ones you want!  Lists include bios and avatars so you can see all in one place, each recommendation.   You can also link it to your website which is awesome!

Best of luck to the TweepMl crew - it HAS been a great ride and a great product!  

Have you ever heard the phrase "please and thank you don't cost a thing"?  It's true! Unless of course you're talking about the Twitter Direct Message!

I remember when I started Twitter, I was overly concerned about acknowledging every new follower with the respect they deserved!  "Thank you for following, I look forward to learning more about you"!  Nice right?  Until one day I used DM for the purpose for which it was intended - to send a private message to a friend.  I think I typed something to the effect of, "wow it's hard keeping up with all these acknowledgements".  To which she replied "you're wasting your time"!  GASP! WHAT!  How rude!

She was RIGHT! 

In my vast (lol) Twitter experience I have learned, it is highly annoying to a recipient to receive a flood of welcome DM's with a sales pitch, promo, link to your awesome website, hug, free gift, or trial marketing program.  They rarely if ever get opened for fear of spam.  Especially an automated DM telling about your new product.  DM's are "typically" removed manually and if you have filled up two pages with how great you are, it might get you unfollowed in a flash!

Suggestion?  If you want to welcome a follower, or get their attention - tweet em!  Get in front of them, engage them in dialogue and get to know them.   You're more likely to get a response and become a familiar face (or avatar).  Send a DM once you've established a relationship, it will be more likey to be received and not instantly deleted.  Note of caution!  If you are not a close DM friend a link in a DM is like a bomb scare - don't do it!

In Twit City the rules still apply just not in the same context! 

If you are at all familiar with Twitter, you have already caught the #followfriday fever.  The weekly ritual of plugging, promoting and singing the praises of your favorite follows AND it is sometimes a very touchy subject.

There is the "guru" set who snub and the new comers who love, and then there is everyone in between.  There is a preached etiquette and the new lists options but however you cut it;  it's still about being social.

If you think of it carefully, you'll realize it's much like a ginormous party - face to face dialogue.  At the start of any party you are careful to make introductions and get everyone to engage.  Once the party starts rolling, let's face it; things get busy.  You make sure to acknowledge everyone but might be forced to give the quick  - everyone this is so and so;  and so and so, this is everyone.  Some guest might find an ally or they may be on their own to mingle and engage.  I find the same scenario applies to #FF

Whether you find recommendations from mass name tweets, from Twitter lists, or from single shout outs  - they are only introductions.  It's up to each one of us to do our own homework and by homework I mean;  reading, learning, engaging and yes - being social!

Are you a planner?  These tools might help you plan your #FF frenzy:

tweetml.org

socialoomph.com

mrtweet.com

Tweetledee or Tweetledumb  by blogomomma.com

http://dcortesi.com/tools/dm-deleter/