Tweet chat guide
Never participated in a tweet chat? Then, you may find our short guide helpful:
What is a tweet chat?
A tweet chat is an online discussion that takes place at a predetermined time on Twitter. Twitter users exchange views on a given subject, at the agreed time, using a 'hashtag'. A hashtag is the hash symbol followed by a word or group of letters, for instance, we use #ChIIAchat. So, to express a view, users tweet and include the hashtag in their tweets. To read other peoples' views, users search for the hashtag, click on it and then read the comments as they build up on the timeline.
Why would I want to participate in a tweet chat?
Unlike many forum-based discussions, tweet chats take place over a shorter period of time ie minutes or hours rather than days. So, you can learn a lot about a specific topic in a very short period of time. You can also help others learn by sharing your views and resources. Participation could also help you build useful links and to network.
What do I need to participate in a tweet chat?
You will need a Twitter account. It won’t cost you anything. Go to twitter.com and sign up for one.
Have you any tips for participating in a tweet chat?
Here are our two tips for participating:
- Use the hashtag in all your comments relating to the discussion. So, for the Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors' tweet chats use #ChIIAchat. This will enable others to follow your comments.
- Take part by posting your own views and responding to others’ tweets.
Tools to help you
These third party applications are not essential but they help you track various aspects of Twitter, including tweet chats represented by a hashtag.
- Tweetdeck (www.tweetdeck.com) allows you to create a column which displays all tweets containing a given hashtage.
- Tweetgrid (tweetgrid.com) allows you to create a grid for specific hashtags.
Other (external) resources on Twitter and tweet chats:
If you are new to Twitter, you may find Paul Trotter’s video useful. He provides guidance on setting up an account; using functions such hashtags, shortening links and searching; and basic Twitter etiquette.
Angela Maier provides some good tips on getting the most out of tweet chats in her blog post.