Have you noticed what happens when people include you in a conversation/update? On Twitter, your handle will be preceded by the “@” sign — what people use in email addresses. On Facebook, the entire update will appear on your profile with your name in blue.
The “@” symbol creates a link/connection between your profile and that of other people’s. Facebook calls it “@ mention tagging” and Twitter, “@replies.” Do not let the different names fool you. The purpose is the same!
When you write a status update and want to add a friend to it, type the “@” symbol and their name. A drop-down list will appear that allows you to choose from your list of connections. These connections include friends, groups, events, applications and pages. When you are done typing your update, press “Share.” Your message will automatically appear on the targeted person’s profile or Fan Page.
Note that the “@ mention” tag also works with comments.
To reply to or include someone in a conversation on Twitter, hit the “swoosh” button 
then write your message next to the person’s @handle — @cendrinemedia for example. Press “Tweet” and your message will reach the targeted tweep within seconds.
Now that you know how to use the “@” symbol, go experiment! You will start seeing results fast: more comments, more interaction, and most importantly, more reader engagement.
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