By Joe Mescher of Social Media Commando. Follow him @JoeMescher.
How would you like to end the debate that ‘Twitter is just for sharing what you had for lunch’ once and for all? This post is about how to use Twitter for a common good, much like I’m doing with the help of my Tweeps in Burlington, VT.
The whole project started with a simple idea, my Twitter handle, and a few hundred interested followers… Let me back up to share what we’re up to. The Vermont Video Resume Project is dedicated to helping every unemployed Vermonter who wants one get a free Web video resume. We’re shooting our first round of resumes August 29th to help people find jobs using the social Web.
So how is Twitter such a critical piece of the equation? Well, when I bought my first HD camcorder I was excited about shooting videos to share on YouTube. Then I noticed by posting the URLs to Twitter my audience increased exponentially. That got me to thinking what else is possible using Web video, and how the Twitter community could use it for a good cause.
My community of followers loved the idea of using Web video to help the unemployed, and our local independent newspaper/website offered to partner with me to spread the word. The project gained critical mass and we eventually joined forces with the local community media station to record the videos at no cost to the participants.
Here’s how you can replicate this project in your own community:
- Crowdsource: Spread your idea like a virus by asking your community of Twitter followers to participate. You’ll be surprised how the idea can be improved and distributed dramatically with the help of others.
- Establish a Hashtag: This is important. Using a hashtag enables you to form a community around your cause, and creates a central point of reference using Twitter Search.
- Partner and Promote: Ask for help, because the media loves a worthy cause. I recommend pinging your local media to participate using their own Twitter feeds, because distribution of your message is critical for awareness and success. By asking people to become ‘Founding Members’ of your project they will be empowered to spread the word for you.
Finally, have fun! Be open to new ideas and don’t be afraid if the project changes form. Twitter is an incredible distribution medium and will help you spearhead a cause that promotes a common good.
@JoeMescher
Thanks Darren and Lara,
I’m honored to be included on TwiTip and hope this post helps and inspires people to start their own community movements using Twitter.
Cheers,
Joe
@ubiquitense
Well, crowdsourcing is catching up like wild fire, and no wonder twitter is a great medium to make a flutter with your ideas. However, I think one needs at least a couple of thousand twitter followers to create a reasonable impact with crowdsourcing.
Joe,
This is such a great idea! As social media is adopted more and more, it’s nice to see it being used for social good, especially in these times. I wish you all the best!
Sara @ iGoMogul
@ImNickArmstrong
Not sure if my last comment got zombie-moderated or what, but…
Great tips – If I would add to the 3 ways, I’d include:
- TweetUps (both local and delegated) so you can find out who your REAL friends are!
- Teaming with Blogs – who also Tweet when they post, so you get twice the audience for half the price
- Use a URL shortener with stats like bit.ly or su.pr so you can know the best times to Tweet links
Thanks for the great article!
-Nick Armstrong
IAmNickArmstrong.com
@revtrev
Great thoughts. I’ve got several for Christians to do the same with Twitter. My book should be out next month. Love using Twitter for the greater good.
@mariansparks
Hi Joe,
This is a fantastic way to leverage your interests and skills to create something wonderful that didn’t exist! It also demonstrates how ONE person can spark change, make a difference when s/he is passionate about the idea and involve others who share that passion. What a way to spark action on a fun and worthy movement!
Thanks for today’s inspiration! I can’t wait to hear the stories from the people who’ll benefit directly, especially during this time of need.
All the best,
Marian
@itstartswithus
Cool article, Joe. I found this article when @clearverve2 listed my site as an example of this kind of “social change” activity.
I’m checking out Social Media Commando now, and I’ll give this article a tweet.
Thanks,
Nate
@Sixth_Sense_Mkt
I agree with Nick, TweetUps are a major factor in achieving goals.