by Rebecca S.

It’s been over a year since I started Tweeting and I can certainly say it’s been well integrated into my life. Speaking in 140 characters is a perfect way for a busy mom to keep in touch, keep in the know and make some wonderful new friends.

I know that dipping your toe into Twitter’s water can seem daunting, but trust me, it’s mostly shallow so you can walk a long way in before sinking.

I am far from a Twitter expert, but I can offer some lessons that I’ve learned over time that help me make the most out of this unique social tool.

1. Follow, follow, follow

At first, you won’t have much more than the few local news outlets, some companies and maybe a few friends in your twitter stream. Start following to build up your feed. The more people you follow, the more information you are getting. When I started, I went through the follow list of other like-minded people and started following based on profiles and similar interests.

2. Write your own profile

While you’re reading the profiles of others to see if you want to follow them, the same goes for others of you. Have a profile that gives a bit about yourself but don’t feel you have to give too much information. Whatever you are comfortable with.

3. Engage!

Okay, that’s not supposed to be a Star Trek statement, it really does apply to Twitter. Reply to tweets, jump into conversations (there’s no interrupting on Twitter!) or ask questions. A simple ‘well done!’ or ‘congrats’ or ‘I have so been there!’ reply to someone can start a conversation and new friendship. Don’t have anything to add to a link or statement? Simply ReTweet (RT) it and pass it along to others who may enjoy it.

4. Be Yourself

Some people on Twitter are insightful. Some are hilarious. Some are political. Some are goofy. Some are friendly and sweet. Some are a combination. The most successful people are often the ones who are themselves. Don’t try to fit into a certain type of tweeter. Be yourself and chat with anyone and everyone – that’s when you’ll find it the most rewarding.

Go ahead. Sign up and start following. Then start communicating and see how quickly you get hooked. Don’t focus on the numbers. Don’t focus on fitting in. Focus on the great people you will meet on Twitter.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that Twitter is only successful when it’s a two-way street.

Rebecca is a stay at home mom of a rock-star preschooler and animated toddler who remind her how special life can be. In between diaper changes and silly games, she writes her own blog , is the Community Engagement Manager for Best Tools For Schools and periodically contributes to other websites.