A retweet is like throwing a pebble into the water and watching it ripple.

Most recently I have been asked why I thank every retweet I receive as well as if I actually thank Tweeters or use a tool. I can tell you that I personally thank each person who retweets my tweets and there are two reasons why I do this.

The first motive seems simple enough, yet the action has far greater potential than at first glance. A retweet not only signifies that the Tweeter “liked” the type of content you shared, but it also means that they were willing to share it amongst their followers. Retweeting your tweet out of their followers is a quick process, but the amplification of your twitter handle and the content they chose to retweet of yours gets some longevity.

The second reason is what a retweet can signify; since retweeting is of course a part of the Twitter process, we can sometimes forget that it can be an action of reaching out, a possible opportunity for networking or a chance to build a relationship. Not everyone can start a conversation with a stranger, yes even on Twitter, sometimes a retweet can be a way of saying “hi” and your acknowledgement can be a way of saying “I see you, I hear you and I thank you.”

Social Media has tapped into the global thing that we all share, no matter the geographic location, language or beliefs, the yearn to belong, to be seen, noticed and recognized is our common thread. This thread should be cherished and saluted with a thank you, a simple yet strong proclamation of existence.

Yes, thanking each retweet personally can take up time, but it is not wasted, it is constructive time that can lead to possibilities unforeseen, a new follower, friend or opportunity. This is why you should never take a retweet for granted, it is a gateway for many things, and saying thank you can be a sign of showing your respect for their time spent on you.

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Erin Ryan is a writer for various blogs and a Social Media Promotional Director who has a keen understanding of the power of Social Media for business and fervently stays up-to-date with the Social Media Industry. Erin enjoys teaching and helping people and businesses on how to use and connect through Social Media. You can connect with Erin on Twitter.

Read more Social Media news on TheErinRyan Blog.