I did something a little out of character last week. I joined Twitter, a free social networking service. I’m really not much of a social networking type of gal. I did create a MySpace page on a lark a few years ago, but after a few hours of tinkering, never went back. I’m not on Facebook, nor have I had any real interest to invest the time and effort.

So what is it about Twitter that attracted me? Twitter enables you to connect with the world, but in short bursts. “Tweeters,” those who use Twitter, answer the question, “What are you doing?” “A tweet,” which is the answer to that question, is a text-based post up to 140 characters. To see what a Tweeter is posting, you must “follow” him or her.

For self-storage owners and operators, Twitter and other social networking services can be a boon. Think of the marketing possibilities. You can post your specials and unit sizes as they change daily, or let current tenants know what’s up. There are already 7 million people on Twitter. And while it’s nowhere near the size of other viral media outlets, it is growing, and more companies are creating Twitter accounts.

But like any word-of-mouth marketing, there is the potential for bad press. Twitter could easily become a thorn in your side if a single customer decided to “tweet” negatively about you. For more on the potential fallout from social networks, read Teri Lanza’s blog.

If you’re looking to connect with other self-storage professionals, but have no desire to “tweet,” check out the Self-Storage Talk forum. Currently, we have 2,000 members trading stories, seeking and giving advice, and just, well, socializing. Trust me, you’ll be entertained—and educated—by our regular forum posters.

If you’re experimenting with social networking sites, tell us about it by posting a comment below. And if you're on Twitter, follow me. I'm Amyc17.