Twitter auto direct messages should be something that most, if not all, organizations/people should stop doing – especially those that contain links.
Here’s my thought process on this.
First, it’s very easy to tell when a direct message is automatically generated and they do not come across as being genuine, at all. If you want to thank someone for following you, doing so publicly would probably be the better method.
Second, no one likes receiving spam email, which I dare say is the equivalent to an auto direct message.
Third, when auto direct messages contain links it feels somewhat shady. When I click links I generally like to no where I’m going, but given the popularity of URL shortening services that isn’t always possible.
When a friend or someone I’ve been following for a while sends me a link it typically comes with a little more trust. When I receive a link in a auto direct message I completely ignore it – and I’m talking always.
There’s no big revelation to this post – it’s somewhat common sense. If you want to thank someone for following you, simply send a public reply – it will be appreciated and also possibly help you “join the conversation.” If you want to send a more private message via direct message, do it on an individual basis.
Have an auto direct message set up? Do yourself a favor and go disable that bad boy – it’s probably just being ignored and getting on people’s nerves. Thanks!
