What are hashtags? The pound symbol (#) before a word or phrase in Twitter is called a hashtag. You will see them before a relevant keyword or topic (ex: #pittsburgh or #vacation) or space-less phrases (#beapresident or #thingstodoinwashpa). They can be used anywhere in a tweet. Hashtags help to categorize or organize a tweet. Hashtags provide a greater opportunity to spread the information in the tweet; the hashtag serves as a vehicle to get your tweet to be part of a conversation on the topic or phrase even to those who may not be following your account.
Official W&J Hashtags
#beapresident
This hashtag is used in tweets regarding a student or faculty achievement. Example)
#wj{event}
For general events such as Move-In or Homecoming, add the prefix "#wj". For example) #wjmovein or #wjhomecoming.
#wjclass{year}
Use this in your tweets during Commencement activities. Example) #wjclass2014
#dubjay
This hashtag can be used for casual tweets geared toward current students. Example)
#whichicoax
When referring to general alumni activity, use this hashtag. Example)
#cepm
When tweeting about the W&J Center for Energy Policy & Management, use this hashtag. Often the tweet includes a second hashtag, #energy as this is a broader topic or conversation.
Tips on Hashtags
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Clicking on a hashtag in any message shows you all the public tweets using the hashtag.
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Do not overuse hashtags. This is an #example of #spammingatweet with #hashtags. Not only will you lose followers, but you weaken the message or conversation.
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Do promote your hashtag at events or conferences, letting others know to use the hashtag during the activity. It is encouraged to place the hashtag on your event in the online calendar and/or publicize it on Facebook.
Resources
@wjcollege
