Micro-blogging

Microblogging or micro-blogging is a term used to describe a single or a series of brief text updates posted on the Internet through a variety of digital channels.

Microblogging is simply a small-scale form of blogging, generally made up of short, succinct messages, used by both consumers and businesses to share news, post status updates and carry on conversations.

The posts are called microposts, while the act of using these services to update your blog is called microblogging. Social networking sites, like Facebook, also use a microblogging feature in profiles. On Facebook this is called "Status Updates".

People can post a microblog message (typically 140 character max length) through special websites, instant message services, mobile SMS messages, etc. and share them with friends, coworkers, and online contacts.

Microblogging has become popular recently because it's free, fast, and easy-to-use social media tool.

Many types of people use microblogging services, such as Twitter, Ping, Friend Feed, Facebook and others to post quick status updates about what they're doing or what they plan to do.

Smart businesses are starting to take advantage of microblogs by posting about upcoming events, company progress, sales, and more.

Be careful with your use of microblogging because many people are guilty of incorrectly using micro-blogging.

This happens when a stand alone communication has no context or point of reference where someone just coming across the line of text would have no understanding of the message.

An example is "@twitteruser: you are so right about that." or worse, you post something lame like I'm going for a walk now. Really, Who cares you are going for a walk.

When using microblogging, post valuble information. Create curosity so the reader wnat to go to your website or blog to find out more of what you are doing.

Like many other social applications, people often ask what are the benefit of microblogging is.

Is it really a powerful way to get known and boost an online reputation, or is it just another Internet time killer?

Here are a few benefits of microblogging

It teaches you to say the most important thing in the fewest words possible.
It is quick, not just to write but for people to read.
It gives you an instant way to alert people to new blog posts, or hot valuable information.
Chances are your followers are really interested in what you have to say (otherwise they wouldn’t be there)
It doesn’t require long periods of concentration (by either you or your audience).
Over time, your subscribers will get to know you through the value you deliver, the links you present and the comments you make.
As it is more like a conversation, you can get to know people quickly and well.
Being a part of it means you’re more likely to get the latest information, as it happens (providing you have connected to the industry leaders)
It allows you to listen, and respond immediately

Microblogging is a fantastic way to listen to the conversation, then broadcast your own thoughts, actions, blog posts, achievements and questions to a broad audience.

Your online and offline reputation is based on what you say, do, share and offer online and microblogging provides you with a really quick, easy to digest way of doing it.

Microblogging added to your social media plan can help build traffic to your website and blogs, build credibility adn lead to more sales.

Budget about 1-3 hours a week. $50 - $150 a week