SocialOomph allows opting out
For those on Twitter, you all know the pain of getting endless automated direct messages ranging from the generic “thanks for following me, I hope you learn something valuable from [insert blog url here]” to “I just joined [insert new third party service here] and think you’d enjoy it too.”
Today isn’t about arguing the merit of auto DMs, but to discuss the new service, SocialOomph that allows users to do the equivalent of blocking all auto DMs.
The service was written up at TwiTip and steps were given on how to block auto DMs, and I asked a question that was echoed by others but was left unanswered:
“I love this idea BUT think about it from this angle: I have to get an auto-dm from @OptMeOut in order to set up service. It’s the same with several other services I’ve set up, so the only problem I see by eliminating all auto-DMs is that other future services (like productivity tools, follower management, etc) that I have to set up via auto DM are limited.”
Here is the real question:
My ultimate question is, would you sacrifice setting up third party applications in order to never get harassed by spammy auto direct messages? Or, do you see the merit of some DMs that make it worth wading through the junk to get the good stuff? Is opting out of auto DMs on Twitter good or bad?
Ken Montville
February 1, 2010 at 10:27 am
I don’t get a ton of auto DMs so I don’t have a real problem with it. Although, it’s refreshing when I get a “real” DM from someone thanking me and noting something about me that means they’ve taken the time to learn a tad about me.
I actually respond to auto DMs sometimes to let them know a “real” person is on the other end willing to engage. Most often it goes unanswered.
I also haven’t gotten to the point of using applications like SocialOomph. Just old fashioned, I guess.
Lani Rosales
February 1, 2010 at 10:41 am
hahaha there is some sad irony in someone using Twitter calling their Twitter use “old fashioned” LOL
andreslucero
February 1, 2010 at 10:45 am
I only get DMs from real people that I know and follow. If I followed someone and they sent me an auto DM, or if they signed up to a service that DM’d be on their behalf, I’d simply unfollow them to prevent further spam.
The only time I can see auto-DMs being useful is for services that send you updates or info that you’ve specifically requested. As you mentioned, blocking DMs from these services would limit their usability, which is why I think the unfollow button is a better way to manage auto DMs than something like SocialOomph.
Felicia Adams
February 1, 2010 at 11:03 am
Only good thing about auto DMs is it lets me know quickly that I have made a mistake following someone. I don’t need to be welcomed by each person I follow — I’ll jump into the conversation and let them know I’m here if we have something to talk about. I’m not a huge fan of 3rd party apps because of security issues, but in this case it might just be worth it!