During transition I’ve leaned into Twitter because I wanted to see what opportunities it presented. I know I wanted to be active on SM as a commander because I wanted to 1) tell the story of the unit & soldiers, 2) have another means to connect/ sense, and 3) network. Thread: 1/

I’ve found it to be a good experience so far. I’ve engaged in lotsa professional discussions that expanded my understanding. Networked with real people who I wouldn’t have otherwise met. And of course I started the Hot Sauce Wars (oops). 2/

Favorite part? Connecting with the younger generation and hearing their perspectives. It’s like the smoke pit, without all of the carcinogens. I’ve learned that Twitter as an officer comes with a risk/reward spectrum. Observations for those lurking or thinking about jumping in:

Medium risk/no reward: Don’t participate. Many peers have chosen this route- but you’re already taking risk by not being here. You’re missing discussions, perspectives, and connections.

Low risk/ low reward: the lurker. This is a solid TTP and I encourage if you’re just starting. In the words of @PatDonahoeArmy, “you can just listen, you don’t ever have to key the handmike.” Recommend doing this for a minute so you don’t block a kick with your face.

Low risk/ medium reward: “the propagandist.” Make your profile your DA photo, and only share bland, canned talking points. “B CO had a great org day!” Better than lurking, as I’m sure at least families enjoy seeing pictures & know how to contact you.

Medium risk/ high reward: professionally engage as your genuine self. I mix personnal and professional, silly with serious- but that’s also just my personality. Dive into threads, give thoughts, take in other perspectives. It is rewarding. @TradocDCG crushes this realm.

Note: as soon as you start engaging, there is risk. Things taken out of context, trolls, and sometimes downright ugliness. Just mitigate. Think before you post, when in doubt stay weapons tight, and respect others same as you would F2F. Pound the mute button if needed for sanity.

Lastly, high risk, questionable reward: the raw “anons.” Sure, you can be anonymous on here, and folks do- for a variety of reasons- but your anonymity is not guaranteed, and if the purpose of being anonymous is to say things you wouldn’t say if you weren’t- it’s high risk.

Being a real person with an easy-to-find .mil keeps your headspace and timing locked in. In summary: assess risk of all COAs, to include not being present, mitigate risk, and enjoy the rewards. Oh and keep condiment opinions to your inside thoughts.

Several O5 peers have leaned in and are crushing it, but we need more at the O6 level like @BreakParDDB. Sir would love to hear your caveats!

Of course I missed @jtw_ngc98 crushing it in the O6 realm. But another great example.