Why Tweetup's & Social Media Events Are So Great


Today I attended the “Techlicious” presentation on 3D TV’s at Mrs. G’s on Route 1, Lawrenceville, NJ. This was part of a 5 part blogger series that Mrs. G’s has been so grateful to offer.

Debbie Schaeffer the owner of Mrs. G’s gave a warm welcome to the group and briefly stated how she thinks it’s so great to have events and Tweetup’s because you are finally able to meet the individuals you are connecting with online.

It got me thinking. That is so true. If you’ve never been to a Tweetup, it’s incredible. It’s not like going to a party where you don’t know anyone and you are scared of feeling awkward. Most people at the Tweetup are people you’ve been following, or vice versa. So you already know them, but from a distance.

The moment you walk into a Tweetup and tell people your Twitter handle, they usually react with a “oh I think I follow you.” It’s an opportunity to finally come face to face with people you already know that you find interesting. Sometimes at a party you end up talking to someone you maybe have no interest in talking to, because it’s forced interaction. At a Tweetup, you’ve more than likely already had a conversation with these individuals.

You follow people on Twitter because you find them interesting, or find a value or benefit in following them. So there is already an interest. Coming face to face and sharing stories and getting to know the individuals in person, is unlike anything.

I’ve never felt uncomfortable at a Tweetup. Every time I’ve attended one, I’ve walked in and immediately ran into someone I already knew (on Twitter that is). The conversation comes easy. Usually they are held at a fun location, with food and drinks. Sometimes there are ice breakers like speed dating. Other times, there may be a presentation on a social media type subject or from a company who has a large presence in the social media community.

As you know, I recently planned my own Tweetup for the NJ unemployed. Tweetup’s are typically geared towards a specific area i.e. Central Jersey, mom’s, bride’s, anyone can host a Tweetup and its simple and easy to do.

Find a local meeting space that will be able to hold the number of people you expect. Try and get some free grub, if possible. It’s always a plus. Then put together an invite (I like Twtvite). All that’s left is inviting people and letting them know about your event. This is simple, because you’re on Twitter, so you just have to post about your event and let your followers know.

If you’re not ready to host your own Tweetup, you definitely need to at least get to one. You can search http://www.twtvite.com for Tweetup’s in your area. Everyone is always looking for something. Whether it’s a job, a service or advice on a particular subject. And networking is key. So get out there and see what’s going on in your area.


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