I went for it! I saw the opening, went out on a limb, risked ridicule but I did it. That’s right, I recommended to a client that they should be on Twitter!

I’ve been using Twitter for only a month or so now after being convinced of its value by our very passionate Director of Planning here at H&K. Here’s another crazy American getting excited by today’s shiny new toy - here today gone tomorrow, I thought. And, in the beginning I felt justified in my attitude towards it. I signed up to play along and thought I’d give it an honest go….ooohhh 3 followers, I’m c-list.

But, then the cravings started. I had to tell the world about every little incident in my life. “Working late, again”, “I’ve just downloaded Firefox” etc etc. It became an addiction and recently I became a “pusher” - dealing Twitter to anyone who would listen and today I strayed into unknown territory - my clients.

You see the truth is, over the past month Twitter has become an incredibly useful tool for me and the value to brands I work with has become more apparent.

It instantly provides a snapshot of what consumers are thinking about your brand, product or service:

“Loving the new Facebook design”

“Still can’t activate my iPhone”

“iPint is an awesome game to play at work … I need to get virtually hammered today!!! I’m on my 15th pint”

But, the conversation needs to be two way. Why should consumers share their thoughts on a brand when the brand gives nothing back? Twitter provides a very simple, non-intrusive way of connecting with consumers with a genuine interest in your products. How many chances do our clients get to engage their audiences in real-time discussion? Not many, but the opportunity to do so is a 5-minute sign-up form away.

Twitter may be a flash in the online pan but, while it is here, brands should be using it to connect with their customers, engage in discussions and understand their products from the perspective of those that use them.

My client is apprehensive but is willing to give it a go. It won’t revolutionise their communications but it will certainly extend it.