Twitter is the number one word for 2009. It outranked Obama and H1N1. Not surprising given that currently there are 6 million Twitter users. By 2010 that number is expected to grow to 18 million!
What, you’re not using Twitter? You don’t get it?
Don’t panic. It’s still not for everyone, but if you really don’t get it and at least want o understand it then pick up a reference book to learn about it. Better yet, create an account. You don’t have to send a tweet every day (a tweet is what your post is called). You could do it once a week. You could simply follow others.
If you still aren’t comfortable or have no idea where to even start, then go to www.lynda.com and sign up for the Twitter essentials. Cost is $25 for a month. You can take as many modules as you like — the best part is that you can do it from your home computer at any hour. It’s the best investment you’ll make in 2009.
I recently heard from someone who did just that. She confesses she’s now tweeting for several of her clients.
Even if you don’t start tweeting, you won’t be behind the curve and you’ll be ready for the number one word of 2010.
Cynthia's Communique 
Recently I co-directed a symposium for my writing group. I wanted to post information on facebook. My co-director freaked out, demanded that I remove the post immediately, and warned me not to use her name or email on any site like it. Of course, I complied and removed my name, as well.
Then one of our New Jersey presswomen explained how she successfully marketed her new book: she twittered, facebooked, ituned, and created a video. All the authors in my writing group do the same. Mastering the new media technology is essential for writers.
I have signed up for Twitter, but haven’t tweeted yet.
I’m getting ready for 2010.
One of my upcoming blogs is going to be about marketing your book. Several of my friends are authors and it’s definitely all about marketing yourself since publishers are not putting money into it — even if you are a big name.