Twitter is getting popular. There is no denying that. A couple weeks ago, I blogged my opinion about the primary source of it’s popularity, I think it’s because of the surge of people who already are thought influencers, large companies or celebrities — they have starting using Twitter (e.g. Shaq, Obama, CNN, Lance Armstrong).

On my Twitter stream today — I shared my blunt realization regarding these “popular” celebrities:

Twitter is only as valuable as the people you choose to follow. What I’ve been finding is that my expectation that following these celebrities would provide value to me — but it hasn’t been fulfilling at all!  I was hoping to get an inside access to the thoughts of these celebs and their daily lives, but the majority of celebs aren’t utilizing it in that way (note: I do realize some celebrities are great on Twitter, but I’m speaking about the generalized majority).

The people you follow define your experience on Twitter.  If the people you follow suck, Twitter sucks. If the people you follow provide value, then Twitter is a valuable resource you’ll keep using. So what’s value mean to me?  In my mind, there are 3 things that define “value”:

• Timely: messages that address current topics, events, issues and news.
• Relevant: tweet topics need to some how affect me or have reason for me to be aware of them.
• Intimate Insight: if 1 of the 2 are not satisfied, then tweets need to provide a “personal” revelation or insight about you — humanized candid information that allows me to get to know you better.

Twitter is just one communication channel. The real-time component is powerful and unique — but only if you’re using it correctly …and that fundamentally comes down to following the right people. What are your thoughts? What celebrities are doing it right? What is your definition of value on Twitter?
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