I've been using social media tools for several years now. My most recent education has come with Twitter. I've been using the tool Twitter for about 5 months now. Over the past 2 months, I've gotten a fairly good handle on what it can be used for and how to use it.

I've also found myself enamored and addicted to Twitter. I have been using Tweetdeck on my desktop and as my followers grow, the people I'm following grows as well. I just glanced over at my All Friends tweets this morning, they are at 493. Can I read all those? No way. I've also created groups, but those are starting to run over the rim as well.

I read a great blog entry today called How to Boost your Social Media Productivity - A Guide for Busy People. Even the list of how to optimize your Twitter experience is a bit overwhelming. But take it easy and just pick a few to start with. I read Tim Ferriss' entry on How to use Twitter without Twitter owning you - 5 tips and I plan on implementing his suggestions.

I think I'm going to have to give up Tweetdeck for now, unless I can figure out a more productive use for it.

If you are new to the world of Twitter, it can be very confusing. I started several months ago using the tool and learning about how to use it effectively. I'm still learning. Here are a couple of links that will get you started learning how it works, how to use it (and not to use it), and understanding how it can be used for your small business.

The beginner's guide to Twitter

A user's guide to Twittering

Twitter for Business

Here's my personal collection of bookmarks for all things Twitter.

That will get you started on your way to using Twitter as a tool for your small business.