For instance, many tweeters use words that will attract the attention of their followers. “Good news,” “today,” “giveaway,” “photo” and “interview” are keywords used quite frequently and usually followed by a colon, a description and, or, a link. Any words that appear to be linked to an interesting story are generally tweets we pay closer attention to.
Today’s Tweets
Inhabitat (@inhabitat): “GIVEAWAY: @Inhabitots is giving away 8 stainless steel personalized @Wawabots water bottles for kids! Enter to win now: http://su.pr/1cPeqK”
People Magazine (@peoplemag): “PHOTO: Katy Perry goes blonde! (via @stylewatchmag) http://ow.ly/7OZC8”
Major news publications use “breaking,” “exposed,” “exclusive,” and “it’s official” to direct follower attention to breaking news stories. Celebrities often use “sneak peak” to provide their followers with an inside look at their latest project, which often makes their fans feel personally connected with the celebrity. Many online niche magazines, organizations and companies use words like, “secrets,” “facts,” “tips,” “how-to” and “top 10” to give their followers helpful hints and pointers that pertain to a particular topic.
Today’s Tweets
TMZ (@TMZ): “EXCLUSIVE: Amanda Knox — Signs with Book Agent … Who Repped Barack Obama http://bit.ly/v4ZaHc”
The Associated Press (@AP): “BREAKING: Service firms expanded at a slower pace in November as orders grow, employment falls. –EF”
One thing that rings true for most tweeters is sending messages to other Twitter users and asking questions. Both methods are interactive, which can help drive traffic to different Twitter accounts as well as open up conversation between both parties. I mean, it’s no secret that Twitter users love when they’ve been re-tweeted or referenced in another person’s tweet.
Today’s Tweets
The Huffington Post (@HuffingtonPost): “Are iPods causing hearing damage? Teens investigate http://huff.to/sCITZq”
Vogue Magazine (@voguemagazine): “Find out @OfficialALT’s take on @The_Real_IMAN in @Zac_Posen at the Alvin Ailey Opening Night Gala. http://ow.ly/7PfUU”
As far as clichés are concerned, there have been a number of times where someone has tweeted a tired cliché, but for some reason it was OK on Twitter — perhaps because it was easy to understand what the person was trying to communicate.
For example, the saying, “Stop and smell the roses,” has often been tweeted to express how one should take the time to appreciate the good things in life. “[We are like] two peas in a pod” has also been used to suggest how close of a friendship two people have.
What are some keywords and clichés you’ve spotted on Twitter? Send us your findings.
