RE-TWEET IT!
Tweet
Yesterday, I noticed a high profile politician on Twitter. Shashi Tharoor was recently elected as a Member of Parliament in India, and has quickly built up a large following on Twitter.
As I watched his tweeting activity, I couldn’t help contrast it against the social media efforts of my good friend, who now holds a senior position in a leading British political party, and who intelligently and effectively uses his email newsletter and blog to further his political agenda, while delivering value to his constituents, all of whom are potential voters.
Here are some of my thoughts on how politicians might use Twitter.
What Is Twitter To Politicians?
There are many possible ways politicians can use Twitter.
A Window Into Their Lives: Used this way, it’s pretty much the same as any other celebrity – and there will be many curious gawkers who are thrilled at what they do, where they do it, and whom they do it with. Little political value, lot of human interest, ego gratifying.
A Platform To Pontificate: Twitter could become just another medium to carry on the oratory that marks their on-stage presence and air time on mass communication channels (TV, radio or other). The downside is that their Twitter audience is far from ‘captive’ – and will likely vanish fast.
A Tool For Engagement: Twitter could become the ideal ‘connection’ tool between politicians and their audience, because the 140 character limit keeps it quick, convenient and informal. Did I mention EFFECTIVE?
7 Things Politicians Should DO on Twitter
DO interact with your followers. Otherwise, your Twitter stream becomes a lecture, not a conversation!
DO use Twitter to seek feedback. It’s fast, useful and let’s you keep your finger on the pulse of your audience (as long as you attract the right people).
DO use Twitter to share news. Especially exclusive updates or developments of special interest or value to your constituents.
DO use Twitter to raise awareness. Got a cause or issue you’re championing through Parliament? Tell your people – they care!
DO use Twitter to generate support for your proposed policies. Worthy movements spread fast and furious across the network. Unworthy ones die out fast, too.
DO use Twitter to poll your audience. Wondering if your constituents really care about a specific issue? Just ask them!
DO stay on top of things. Engage someone to help out, if you must. But keep it current. Nothing sucks more than a stale Twitter account.
7 Things Politicians Should NOT DO on Twitter
DON’T get too intimate, explicit or personal. Yes, we’re curious. No, we’re not obsessed about you!
DON’T pretend interest or enthusiasm you don’t feel. It’s easy to sense insincerity on Twitter, and you’ll be shooting yourself in the foot if you try and fake it!
DON’T ignore questions or comments from your following. Even a simple “I’ll look into it” is better than silence!
DON’T get into protracted arguments or passionate debate. You can’t get a point across effectively in 140 characters – and often end up creating the wrong impression. (Hint: Blogging works better for this.)
DON’T get carried away and reveal sensitive information or confidential policy matters!
DON’T make it about YOU. It is (and should always be) about THEM. That’s the key to Twitter success, by the way, even if you’re not a politician!
DON’T ever forget that your voters are watching all that you say and do on Twitter!
Why Twitter Matters To Politicians
In the hyper-connected world of today’s social media networked Internet, politicians have a never-before opportunity to harness technology to their ‘people savvy’ and create a powerful synergy that they can take to the (vote) bank!
How many will take advantage of this, and leverage an incredibly powerful asset, use it to vault over their opponents to power and fame?
And more to the point, how many will put this amazing reach to good use and provide better governance within the framework of their own existing norms?
Time will tell. One thing is for sure, though. Politics just got a whole lot more interesting – and interactive!
Got any thoughts yourself on how politicians can use Twitter more effectively? Please share them in a comment.
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