Twips (Twitter Tips) episode 2, 3 things you might not know about Twitter...

1:  Tweets that start with @ can only be seen by mutual followers.

This is fine if you want to carry on a fairly private conversation via Twitter.  However, if you're using Twitter as a social networking tool, try rewording the tweet so that it doesn't open with the @{twithandle}.

2:  Responding to Direct Messages require a mutual follow.

Pretty straightforward info right?

Not if you're using BOTS (anything automated) to Direct Message your new followers with a direct question.  Seriously, there is nothing more annoying than being asked something, and then not being allowed to respond because the person asking the question isn't following the conversation.

It's like walking into a party and being asked a seemingly honest question by the host, right before they walk off without waiting for your response or even seeming to care.

3:  Bots are annoying.  Please stop using them.

I understand that you may have been promised a zillion followers if you just buy into someone's 'automated' program that swears it will free up your time while still expanding your social network.

Sorry,

You were lied to.

Oh, it might expand your network all right... with a bunch of other robots.

If you want quality, real, organic, home grown humanoids to follow you... try actually being one first.