Thanks to Terry Crosby I figured out how to engage particular groups that I want to follow in list fashion on HootSuite. I can create a list - or a column as it is known on HoostSuite - using keyword phrases under the Keyword Tracking option. Then I can pick a person within the column to both follow and tweet a message to on the Hootsuite interface. It gives the option to make my choice of the Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn platforms to send the tweet simultaneously. Take a look at Terry’s tutorial for a quick lesson.

As for today’s activity in particular, I’m looking up other bloggers and social media experts who are attending Blogging While Brown in the Nation’s Capital this summer. My objective of course is to take the initiative in my real world networking by connecting virtually and touching base with potential new friends and business associates a few months ahead of time.

Also discovered today that the regular Twitter account allows you to create lists as well. The Blogging While Brown site has a list of attendees so I just followed the entire list (By the way why aren’t you on there already?) and now I’m following up with particular greetings to each of them.

So I encourage you to create a HoostSuite account today and spend some time learning the fundamentals. Create a few columns using keywords relevant to your blogging and social networking. Then work your columns in tandem with your favorite Twitter fan page lists and watch your contacts blossom.