Why Twitter is ahead in the popularity stakes

Why Twitter is ahead in the popularity stakes

Since the advent of Social networking, numerous social media networks have sprung up across the web and while the ever popular MySpace and Facebook were among the first to appear, it doesn't necessarily mean that users think they are the best. In fact a recent study showed the Twitter is more popular and here are just a few reasons why:

1. Twitter is more interactive

With Twitter you can interact with anyone without having to deal with the admin of "approving" them as contacts or friends like on other social media. Just ask Bill Gates who recently abandoned his Facebook because he simply couldn't keep up with the numerous friend request he was receiving.

Twitter's more "open" platform means that you can interact with anyone on the network including celebrities. In fact many celebrities even reach out to normal people and fans. For example Justin Bieber is known for interacting with fans via Twitter and using their feedback to market his brand. Another celeb tweeter Kim Kardashian recently responded to a fan that tweeted "I'm getting head 2 toe plastic surgery next week 2 look like kimkardashian so my husband won't leave me, He worships her." Kim said "NO" and then pleaded with the woman not to undergo the surgery saying "Pls dont. Your husband should love u 4 who u r! Don't try 2 b someone else. Im sure u are beautiful inside & out. Just as you are." Demi Moore also reportedly tweeted and helped someone who wanted to commit suicide. The list continues and this kind of interaction is definitely something you don't see on Facebook or MySpace.

2. Information is more concise and relevant

The very nature of Twitter's "short" messaging of only 140 characters means that most people usually get to the point, and you only see relevant information. Okay there are some who babble inanely but you don't have to follow them and their babble can't infiltrate your personal page.

3. There is less clutter

Everything in Twitter is short, sweet and to the point. The bio page is simpler and there are no games to play or special groups to join as with other applications. This means you don’t have to wade through tons of invitations, tags and pokes, not to mention boring timelines and streams of what people are doing, to get to what you want to know and get quicker responses... and that means you save time! What a relief!

4. It is more Private where it counts

Twitter requires far less personal information from you when signing up than other media, let's face it, not everyone wants to share every aspect of their lives past and present with everyone on their network. The more private Twitter options are the perfect conditions for businesses and news networks.

5. It's not automatically reciprocal

On Facebook if you add someone as a friend you are automatically added to their list. Twitter is more targeted and just because someone follows you doesn't mean that you have to follow them in return. This means you only receive Tweets from those you choose to.

6. Direct Message to Mobiles

Most social media platforms require you to use complicated "add on" app's in order to send messages to mobile phones, but not Twitter, all you have to do is type in "d username" and the mobile number. You can also receive messages via e-mail and mobile by simply enabling the function.

7. Twitter delivers news faster

Twitter delivers news faster than any other medium and has been the premier platform for most world events.

8. Twitter is generally helpful

People can share their personal experiences and advice which you can pick up in search related to certain products/terms. So you can find the best restaurants in your area, or avoid stores with bad service. Often people will share an inspirational quote or tell you where to find the best bargains for numerous purchases, so you're getting added advice and can benefit from others experience all the time.

9. Twitter and the Human Factor

When it comes to corporate using social media for marketing and social interaction with their target markets, Twitter allows a human touch point for fast and effective communication that builds trust and loyalty. While Facebook does have greater branding benefits, one has to question if this is as relevant to users as having a tangible personality to interact with.

10. Most important of all – it saves time

All of the above points considered, Twitter is effective, efficient and saves time while allowing you to be connected, have fun and stay informed in just a few minutes a day.