What are YOU guilty of ... on Twitter?

We've all read articles on Twitter etiquette and skimmed over How-To Twitter blog entries, but there aren't any specific rules to follow on this social networking service. Spamming is certainly discouraged, and swearing about trivial matters is a big no-no, but what other set-in-stone (spoken or unspoken) rules are there?

I have created a list of things that I shake my head at while logged in to Twitter. (I can guarantee that all of us, at some point, are/were guilty of these when we first joined!)

1. For personal matters, using Direct Messaging as opposed to @replies. The whole world doesn't want to hear about your bathroom troubles at 4am this morning. Keep it private.

2. No screaming. The amount of times I log in to Twitter and see a string of "!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" everywhere. Oh, and capital letters are also a form of screaming. See below. Lay off the caps lock.
3. No one likes a show off or a gossiper. Remember, Twitter is like one huge house party, everyone can hear you. Keep conversations interesting, relevant, and fun.

4. Constructive criticism is good and usually sparks great conversation, but lashing out at tweeters is never a good idea, so just don't do it!

5. Over-posting. There's no need to post the same article 4,000 times. Post it once or twice throughout the day. I know you are excited to announce that you got a promotion at work, but don't rub it in!

6. If you come off as a jerk on Twitter, chances are people will treat you like a jerk and/or un-follow you. Be kind, be friendly, be grateful that people chose to follow you based on your interests and personality.
7. Creating multiple Twitter accounts and adding yourself as a follower to all of them. You really need friends that badly? Sheesh...

What are some of the things that make you laugh, cry, or cringe the minute you log into Twitter? Post comments below on @whereivebeen.

Katy Lynch
Community Manager
katy@whereivebeen.com