What is a tweetchat? updated 3/15/2018
Tweetchats are Twitter conversations that occur at a set time on a pre-determined topic. All tweets are labeled with a designated hashtag and ready followed by searching the hashtag or using a program such at Tweetchat. As hashtags can be used by anyone, there are no limitations on who can join. For a great list of health care tweet chats, see Symplur.
How do I prepare for the chat?
Make sure your Twitter pic and profile represent you in a manner you wish to be represented. Your Twitter profile will serve as a supplemental, unspoken introduction during the chat. For tips on completing your profile, click here. In terms of preparing for the topic of a tweetchat, that will depend on the chat topic and your goals for the chat. Often no preparation is needed.
How do I follow so many tweets?
To participate in a tweetchat, search the hashtag in Twitter's native search function, then sort by "latest" for reverse chronological order. In this method, Twitter autopopulates the hashtag into your tweets, however you have to enter it yourself when replying to a tweet.
Is there any etiquette I should be aware of?
- You may want to quote tweet the announcement for the chat, with a note to your followers that your tweets will be increased during the upcoming hour.
- If your tweets are in response to specific topics or questions, try to label them T1 or Q1, Q2, etc.
Any final tips?
Have fun! Don’t be afraid to chime in or simply follow along. (Both are encouraged!) Tweetchats can move along quickly. Most tweetchats later post the complete transcript, which can be more carefully digested and followed up on after the tweetchat.
