Several readers have asked me lately about the value of Twitter. Is it worth it? The short answer is: It depends. Here are some thoughts to guide your thinking:

1.Understand it.
Twitter is a relatively new medium. Part of the attraction is that we're all trying to figure out its potential and its role in an interactive, always- connected environment. Yes, it's worth learning what it is, how it works, and who is using it -- even if you ultimately decide it's not for you and your business. It's free and low-risk.

2. Try it.
Sign up for an account and explore. Twitter went through a large spike in popularity and is now entering a different phase. Businesses are understanding that it's not about quantity as much as quality of followers. It may -- or may not -- make sense for you to devote resources of time and energy here. But it's difficult to make that judgement until you dip your toe into this digital river.

3. Learn from others how to maximize it.
Sign up to follow a few companies and individuals you like, respect, and trust. See how they're using Twitter, and if it resonates with you. Some soloists use it to promote longer pieces on their blogs, offer commentary on news and events, share and forward ideas from others, and position themselves as leaders of virtual communities. By following others, you'll experience the wide range of personalities that comes across in 140 characters.

Twitter is only one element of the larger social media toolbox. For some, it is a valuable part of their business; for others it is a black hole that devours important parts of their day. (For me, the most difficult part is to achieve a consistent voice in only 140 characters.) We're all still learning -- and that's part of the fun.

-- Terri Lonier
Founder, WorkingSolo.com

P.S.: Working Solo colleague Ilise Benun is planning the Third Annual Creative Freelancer Conference in Denver, Colorado this June 5-6, 2010. No matter how long you've been working independently, this event can help you build a stronger, more profitable business. Save by registering by the March 12th Early-Bird deadline. Plus, Working Solo Minute readers get an extra $25 with promo code: 1A. Details here.