Does anyone remember back in the early to mid-90s when whether to launch a web site was still a decision? I was working for a firm then that did interactive design, in addition to traditional marketing communications. One of the big issues of the time was people registering domain names of companies that had not yet taken the plunge. So a big brand would go to register www.insertbrandnamehere.com only to find out it had been “hijacked” by some web developer seeking a huge bounty.

Now that recognized brands are setting up Twitter accounts, it seems like the same type of “brandjacking” is taking place. Just this week, I tried to look up two brands I wanted to follow on Twitter: BornFree and Method. When I know who I am looking for, my first step is often to enter www.twitter.com/theirhandle. But simply entering “bornfree” and “method” took me to unrelated accounts. While the users were not posing as the brands (or looking for a payout), the logical handles for the companies’ social media efforts were taken. Twitter, by the way, does have rules about people misleading followers with company names, logos and false information. My next step was a Twitter search that took me to relevant tweets about their brands, but not to their actual accounts. Ultimately, I found them via links posted on their corporate sites: www.twitter.com/newbornfree and www.twitter.com/methodtweet.

The motives of the handle-squatters may not be malicious, but you never want roadblocks between your brand and your customers. If a hijacker is seeking to harm your brand, Twitter will apparently suspend accounts where an overt trademark infringement is occurring within 48 hours. Unfortunately, it doesn’t take long for a rumor to turn into reality in the minds of consumers. Just ask Tommy Hilfiger.

Several months ago, we did an assessment of Twitter to determine its viability for a client of ours. We ultimately decided it was not the best use of the company’s limited resources. Their product is expensive, meant to last decades and doesn’t inspire the kind of two-way dialogue the channel affords. But we did take the time to register handles for other clients (with their permission) that should be considering Twitter. In fact, we’re starting to implement the social media strategy for one this week.

Bottom line: If you haven’t registered a Twitter handle for your company brand or name, do it now. Even if you never issue one tweet.

P.S. Our own Jennifer Leckstrom recently penned a piece on her local community’s use of Twitter, which ran on the cover on the paper!

Tracey and soon-to-be big brother Kyle

When I was pregnant with my first child, I remember people frequently asking me if I would return to work. And I remember thinking… yes of course I’m going to return to work (it’s part of who I am and what I love) but also being torn that I didn’t want my newborn with a nanny or in daycare full-time.

Fast forward two and a half years, and I’m about five weeks away from delivering my second child and preparing for maternity leave this summer. With my impending departure and Mother’s Day around the corner, I find myself reflecting upon my current status as a working mom with a flexible schedule. My situation enables me to spend a good amount of time with my son every week while remaining an active participant in the workforce. I am very fortunate and recognize that I am in a rare situation. I honestly feel that I have the best of both worlds.

I strongly believe that I’ve been able to transcend the heated “mommy wars” because of my situation. Some days I’m in the office focusing on PR strategy and immersed in the ever-changing media landscape while other days I’m out dancing the hokey pokey and finger painting with toddlers.

Flexible work schedules and job shares are more common today than they were a decade ago. However, the economic climate has forced companies to make some difficult decisions, which has certainly impacted moms in similar roles.

The founder of Rose Communications, Rosemary Ostmann, has always been a big proponent of an entrepreneurial environment. In doing so she’s created one of the best places for moms to work. I am passionate about my job, clients and company and honestly feel that I am more productive here than I’ve ever been. It’s not about clocking in and logging hours –it’s about producing value for our clients and that doesn’t necessarily mean you have to burn the midnight oil five to seven days a week. Being a mom is a wonderful, awe-inspiring experience and if it’s taught me nothing else, it’s taught me to be a better multi-tasker. This skill set is beneficial both at home and in the office.

With my second child on the way, I’m hopeful that I can keep the balancing act going. Certainly technology, in particular my coveted Blackberry, helps to facilitate the juggle. Also working in a supportive environment– one that doesn’t mind breast milk stored in the fridge or a late morning arrival because of a toddler music class– helps. In my mind, it is possible to be a working mom who still spends a good amount of time at home with her child.

Occasionally my worlds collide where I’m singing Music Together songs at work or thinking about a complex work issue on the playground but more often than not I’ve been able to keep things separate.

What I’ve learned over the past two years is there doesn’t have to be a hard line drawn in the sand — in 2009 we can all redefine for ourselves what it means to be a working mother. For me it’s a hybrid and I love every minute of it.