I recently read an article about the origin of the hashtag and what the heck it means. Honestly, does anyone know what a hashtag is. How do we explain it? My mom has looked at my twitter before and has asked me what the 'pound sign' means. "Mom, I don't really know what to tell you." The hashtag can be used to emphasize sarcastic remarks, sentimental comments, or "inside" jokes. Recently companies have been using hashtags to create trends. These trends can show up on our newsfeed and can drive traffic to their twitter account. These companies also have the opportunity to purchase trends. Personally, I don't know if I agree with companies purchasing twitter trends. Twitter is meant for people to speak their mind in 140 characters or less. When companies purchase these trends they are almost interfering with the natural interaction on this platform.
If I put myself in the companies shoes, then purchasing twitter trends is extremely logical. It allows their company to get into the middle of the action and have significant conversations and engagements with their audience. With large events or new products being put out, companies can use these promoted hashtags and trends to direct the conversation. They are able to tell their audience where they are and what they are talking about. The most successful brands on twitter are constantly giving their audience something to talk about. I love when the brands I follow are constantly educating and entertaining me on twitter. It furthers my loyalty with them in the simplest way.
With Twitter continuing to grow and other social platforms being created everyday, I am extremely excited to see where the hashtag takes us and if it means the same in a year or two.
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