blog.bradjward.com

Twitter is a Circus

// May 22nd, 2009 // Uncategorized

I’ve come to the conclusion that Twitter is a circus. Allow me to explain.

Just like the circus, Twitter has all sorts of things to see. All kinds of people.  You’ve heard the media talking all about it and how it’s coming to town, and it’s probably the coolest thing at that moment.  There are a ton of things to see underneath the big striped tent. Your admission ticket is free, but make sure you spend your time at the Circus wisely. Here’s a small sample of who you might encounter at the Twitter Circus.

The Ticket Taker

The Ticket Taker is the one to greet every single person through the door.  “Welcome, thanks for being here! Have fun.” That’s when you know you’ve arrived. It’s time to go inside and see who else is around.

The Ringmaster

According to Wikipedia, the ringmaster’s job is “to create a sense of hyperbole whenever possible while introducing the acts. Declarations of the “biggest”, “most dangerous”, “amazing”, “spectacular” and similar expressions are common, regardless of the actual caliber of the performance.”

Twitter is no different.  Look for the Ringmasters with huge amounts of followers and few updates.  They have the biggest, most amazing and spectacular thing for you.  Just click the link.  It’s gotta be great…. right?

The Tight Rope Walker

High in the sky is the tightrope walker, performing what seems to be an incredible act of skill and bravery. But come on, you know the real reason we all watch the Tight Rope Walker…. to watch them fall. And after they fall, it’s over.  Tight Rope Walkers don’t get a second chance. The Twitter Tight Rope Walker is no different.  High up there, seemingly unreachable, and they have one chance to prove themselves.  Fall and it’s game over.  Maybe it’s a failed ‘viral marketing’ campaign, maybe it’s just the fact that everyone realizes that # of followers does not equal credibility or knowledge.But come on… you know you’re watching.

The Lion Tamer

Taming a lion is no small feat. Taming people who talk on the internet is no different. The Twitter Tamer is typically the peacemaker in the network. They want to know how you’re all doing, they truly care about you and want to make sure you’re good. Stay on the Twitter Tamer’s good side.

The Elephant

Ahh yes, the elephant in the room.  Your boss, your competitor, the company that still doesn’t really get Twitter but joined and got 50 followers in 2 weeks, so now they are an expert for their clients. They’re there, you see them, and they just kind of stand around and do nothing. You don’t really have the desire to go see them.

The Clown

Every Circus has a clown or two, Twitter is no different.  Very easy to spot. Colorful and vibrant for awhile, but then they get on your nerves and you end up having nightmares about them.  Approach Twitter Clowns with caution.

The Contortionist

What do you want to see today? The Contortionist can make it happen.  Constantly doing something interesting and unique.  The Twitter Contortionist is similar.  One week they are an entrepreneur, the next a Social Media Maven. A few days later, marketer and viral product evangelist.  You never know how it’s going to turn out, but don’t worry… it’ll be over soon enough.

The Juggler

How do they do it!?! The Twitter Juggler is seriously impressive.  How do they juggle the day job, the night job, the blog job, the twittering, the family, the friends? Hustle.  Keep an eye on the juggler, you never know what’s going to come next.  (I’m a fan of the flaming arrow).

The Bearded Lady

Sorry, I had to.

The Magician

Able to do anything with no explanation.  How it happened is a mystery, but you know something’s up and just can’t place a finger on it. The Twitter Magician is no different. What are they talking about, and how did they get to that conclusion?  Where did those numbers come from?  You could please explain what you mean?  Oh, you’re on to the next trick already… maybe next time.

Peanuts Guy

“Peanuts! Get your peanuts!!”  Just here to make a few bucks real quick.  Ignore him and don’t make eye contact.  He’ll be gone soon enough!

The Audience

Everyone else in the crowd, who’s trying to decide where to go and what to see next.

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Who else is in your Twitter Circus? I want to be a part of it. @bradjward, follow me today.

I’ll let you decide which cast member I play in your network.