I just update and go. Love it. It is a tool on the web like no other. I like to describe Twitter as IM on crack.

With that fine introduction to what Twitter is, below are my top picks for twitter tools you should be using if you’re a blogger.

1. Twitter Feed -This is where the RSS feed function of Twitter comes into play. I cant’ tell you how many times i’ve come across a feed tweet from a blogger that led to some interesting or useful information. Feed tweets get me all the time from a variety of bloggers. Don’t miss out on sharing a great post, use TF.

2. Twirl -This is a neat widget download that allows for the use of Twitter like an instant messenger, as opposed to having a web window open. You can send tweets, receive tweets, fave tweets, share pics, share links, (and my fave feature) you can re-tweet with Twirl. It’s free, easy, and fun. A must if you’re a blogger.

3. Tweet Later – You can do several things with this one. First you can schedule an upcoming Tweet and have it delivered at a predetermined date and time. Second you can auto follow people who follow you. And third you can send a thank you or welcome message to new followers in the form of a DM, automatically via Tweet Later. 3 very cool features. (hat tip to Sly from Slyvisions on this one) UPDATE: I no longer auto follow or send out automatic DM’s. I still think Tweet Later is good for its initial purpose though.

4. Twitter Search -The name says it all. This site allows you to search in real time for whatever topics you want more information on. You type in a search query and it searches all of Twitter for a result. Very addictive.

5. Monitter – I just found this one, but its worthy of mention. It’s like Twitter Search, in that it allows you to search. But it displays three columns worth of tweets, as opposed to one. Great for multi-taskers.

The Famous Follow

Of course one can’t write a post on Twitter, and not ask for the famous follow. So you know what comes next, right? If you’re a blogger and use Twitter, follow me here.

Want More?

Here is a link to a fantastic round up of Twitter tools. It’s a really long list, so go grab a cup of coffee before reading this one.

Not On Twitter, Yet?

If you’re not on Twitter yet and have questions on how to use it, how to add followers, what to tweet about, etc. Grab a copy of my Awesome Twitter Guide, a beginners guide to Twitter.

There are many tools and apps that expand the functionality of Twitter and or just make it more fun. Subscribe to my blog so you don’t miss out on cool Twitter tools, apps and resources.

Problogger Darren Rowse has launched a blog devoted to all things Twitter. He launched it just days ago and in it he sets out to cover tips on how to best use the micro blogging platform.

TwiTip is a blog about Twitter. It’s a place that I’ll be posting tips, news and reviews of tools for those wanting to improve their use of Twitter whether it be using it for personal reasons, to expand their personal brand, to promote their business etc.

Twitter exploded in 2008 and has gained mad popularity among bloggers, myself included. I think some of the popularity stems from the fact that the tool allows for quick communication. Not too mention it is a flexible platform, you can update via the web or via your cell phone.

Darren has a big following so his twitter blog will no doubt be a big hit. He says he received over 1,000 visitors on day one since the launch.

What sort of tips can you expect from Darren on TwiTip?

Nothing but great insights for sure, including how to optimize, how to get the most use of, how to find more followers, cool new Twitter tools and more. Speaking of Twitip, i think he could/should have picked a better name for this blog. I think many bloggers are going to be typing in “Twit Tip”, not “Twi Tip”.

What’s Next? What else but to ask you to follow me on Twitter. Feel free to leave your info below so i can follow you as well.

via – Web 2.0 Blog

For example, lets say you write a blog on vintage clothes, and you want to stay updated on what others on Twitter are saying and discussing on this particular topic. Just TweetBeep this keyword, and alerts are automatically generated and sent to you, on your schedule, as frequent as hourly, or less so, once daily.

The Twitter alerts service is quick and easy to set up, try it out.

Did you know with Google Analytics you can find out the following from your site or blog visitors:

• What city they are from
• What exact keywords they used to find you
• What day and time they visited your blog
• Where exactly they came from
• and so much more

Below is a video on Google Analytics and How To Get Started With It.

If you run a site or blog, it is terribly important to add a solid stats counter to your marketing arsenal. Why? Because you will want to know who is visiting, how they found you, when they visit, if they are repeat visitors, and more. Why? So you can tailor your content to attract more of your “TYPE” of visitor. More visitors equals more traffic, more traffic equals more interaction, subscribers, income, etc.

Google Analytics is offered for FREE to all, and just about every blogger i know uses it. It is easy to add to your site or blog, and easy to use. Many bloggers use two stats tools, they will use both GA and also an additional stats package like StatsCounter. Why? It’s the ole “not having all your eggs in one basket” type deal. That’s all. Plus some like the different options and interface available from different stats vendors.

If you live in Boston, Orlando, or Chicago, check out one of the June 2008 Google Analytics Seminars.
There are two versions, a basic one, and an advanced one. Both are offered by certified Google Analytics Consultants.