FollowFriday doesn't work

The concept of FollowFriday isn't a vague one to most Twitter users. Simply stated, you put #FollowFriday in your status bar followed by the several names of recommended Twitter accounts that your followers should also follow.

The idea, in theory, is a great way of getting to know and follow more people that will add more value to your microblogging experience. But the truth of the matter is that FollowFriday has turned into a marketing joke- a "if you scratch my back, I will scratch your" kind of deal. Friday now consists of massive tweets bursting at the seams with the names of people I never intend to follow.

Users should only suggest people if they feel that they are truly adding something positive to Twitter. But the reality of the situation is that 90% people's reasoning for FollowFriday suggestions are based off of the following:

1. They recommended you so you must return the favor
2. They are a friend/relative
   
3. They need to reach a certain amount of followers
4. They are new to twitter

Terrible reasons for recommendations, all of them. Using these tactics will yield tweets like the one above. FollowFriday is a great idea but needs a hell of a lot of personal restraint to make it an effective method of honest recommendations- not just a message that won't even get a quick scan.

-- Chad Waite, Daily Derbi