If you have been looking for a way to quickly fill your social network with like-minded individuals, look no further than twitter. With small 140 character updates, you can grow your social network like never before possible.

Here are some neat applications and websites to help you get started using twitter to its full potential.

Using tools such as www.twellow.com you can search for people with similar interests and start following them. While you are there, be sure to setup your twellow account and add links to your other social networks.

If you don't want to use your cell phone to send and receive tweets, you can use a desktop application such as twhirl or tweetdeck.

You can use an application like www.friendorfollow.com to make sure that you are following those that are following you and see who is not following you back.

Using www.tweetlater.com you can automate your twitter account to auto-follow new followers and send a follow-up DM (direct message) to thank them for following you. If you are careful (DON'T use follow-ups for self-promotion or even worse to try to sell anything) you can use follow-ups to invite others to connect to you on other social networks.

As a twitter beginner, you may have many questions. Here are a few articles to help you get started in the right direction.

In the article 10 Easy Steps for Twitter Beginners Darren Rowse offers a simple and informative answer to the question, "What do I do with twitter?"

In 35 Twitter Tips form 35 Twitter Users, you can find a collection of advice to get you started.

In Twitter Tips for new users, Paul Walsh lays out some candid advice for getting started.

Read more in our RTV eNews