Image via CrunchBase

Marketers love data.

They love to know what people think about their products or service and adjust accordingly.

So, as a marketer, I was thrilled when I found out about a service called Qwitter.

What it does is simple: tells you when someone decides to STOP following you on Twitter (a previously anonymous decision.)

Well, every few days someone decides to stop following me (fortunately, growth is still VERY positive--thank you!)

I don't care, personally, but I am curious as to why.

• Am I no longer relevant?
• Too many tweets?
• Too much noise, not enough signal?

I realize it is a data point of one, but I'd prefer to pick up an early warning sign before it's too late.

I started reaching out to people who stopped following me with the following note:

"No hard feelings, I promise, but may I ask why you chose to stop following me?"

The first few....no one responded.

Then, Warren did (and kudos to him for his frankness).

He wrote via Facebook:

Thanks for connecting (I think) and note.

This is the first Qwitter challenge (?) that I've received.

Anyhow, in answer to your question, I don't recall anything specific, maybe end of election, maybe fat fingers, maybe bad mood. Anyhow I am happy to re-follow. I appreciate the email and friending, Warren

He then sent me a link to this great article about the issues of Qwitter

Questions:

• If someone stops following you, should I (and we) just leave it alone?
• Will it change people's behavior in terms of commitment (following) or personal satisfaction (not willing to unfollow for fear of being outed)?

Warren has his perspective on his blog.