Twitter is a website that is the ultimate social media.
It makes or breaks careers for celebrities, it plays a part in politics, and even gets congressmen fired (think Anthony Weiner).
Even some news stations rely on it as a source, often quoting directly from a Twitter page.
Twitter’s influence is based on its fast and easy nature and, more importantly, how it mirrors real friendships with public figures.
My fascination with Twitter started when I began using an old account just a few months back. My prior experience was limited.
I was retweeted once about an old article I wrote, and that was about it. Still, since I reactivated my account, I only follow others.
I may post a picture every once in a while, but I just like to chuckle at the witty one liners tweeted by Jim Gaffigan or some news about my favorite shows (usually posted by Adam Scott. I’m a sucker for Parks and Rec…).
On Twitter, tweets are usually posted to a public dashboard where they are announced to the world.
Updates like “heading out to go shopping” or “can’t wait to hang out with (@insertfamouscelebrityhere) later!” are said to anyone who follows the specific person.
Today, the most popular users can have millions of followers.
That means millions of people will get notifications on their phones or computers while eating lunch or sitting in class saying that their favorite celebrity is “going to see a movie” or believes that “Emma Stone was the best dressed at the Oscars!”
Everyday people who follow celebrities or political figures can learn more about their favorite stars.
It evolved from the tabloids that came out once a month claiming they heard a conversation, or know if an actress is pregnant.
But now, you hear it (most of the time) right from the source.
It creates an illusion that they are saying this right to you, instead of to millions of fans.
The key to Twitter’s success is based on the audience and the site’s users.
A college student created Facebook for other college students, and blogging sites are generally used as a virtual scrapbook.
Twitter on the other hand was made for the media; it allows news and information to be spread quickly.
In 140 characters you have to say your peace and move on.
There is no club to join, no page to ‘like.’ All you have to do is follow that person and you will forever know details about their lives.
It’s the ultimate outlet for fast news that doesn’t take up hours of your time.
I too am no exception to the Twitter celebrities.
I follow mainly comedians, in order to get updates on tours and read witty commentary (and I may follow the entire Glee cast…).
There is something so personal about Max Greenfield and Mindy Kaling going back and forth right in front of my eyes, that it’s hard not to feel like there is less separation than usual.
Of course, I’m not blind to the fact that it’s not always the celebrities tweeting.
For example, Ryan Secrest actually hires someone to run his Twitter account.
This job may seem silly, but this intern, probably a public relations student, makes more money than we probably ever will just for making sure he posts his 140 characters for the day.
Twitter is a website that truly offers it all.
Users can follow news pages, celebrities, and their friends.
It creates a place where stars can connect to their fans or two friends can talk back and forth.
I believe that Twitter trumps Facebook and blogging sites because it offers quick and short updates, and more importantly, it connects everyday people with public figures.
