Having that check mark after your Twitter handle has become a sort of “I’ve really made it!” moment for some aspiring celebrities and personalities. But the verification process has met with some criticism because it seems that the social network does it “on a whim” and there is no consistent process as to how to go about it. Some say there has also been some “social media politics” involved and that it’s really up to the powers. But now, they are actually opening up the application process to make it easier for those who really, really want that white over blue check mark.
Twitter is now making the verification process more transparent. Those who are in the areas of “music, acting, fashion, government, politics, religion, journalism, media, sports, business, and other key interest areas” or brands in those areas as well, will now be able to make their case for being verified. The account would need to have a verified phone number (no check marks needed there!), a valid and confirmed email address, a bio to easily know what the account is all about, a profile photo, a website connected to the account, and a set birthday if the account is person.
Another thing needed is that the tweets have to be set to public, because of course, why would you need verification if only your approved followers can see you? You would also need to explain why you would be “worthy” of verification. You may even be required to show a government-issued ID for confirmation. And if you do get rejected, you can re-apply for verification again after 30 days.
There are just almost 187,000 verified Twitter accounts right now, but we will probably see a significant increase once this verification application process has rolled out. The question now would be, would it still carry the same weight as before, now that anyone (well, relatively speaking) can apply and make their case? Let’s see what happens as the applications start rolling in and the verifications start being granted.
VIA: SlashGear
Everyone, except me, apparently. They’re still using the old guidelines according to this, even with all the information they requested for verification:
“Thanks for your request to verify @MaceMoneta.
We reviewed the account, and unfortunately it is not eligible to be verified at this time. Please visit our Help Center for more information about the types of accounts we verify.”