Sep 03 2009
Twitter isn't just popular - it's growing in massive numbers by the day. And many reports show that the main people who use Twitter aren't teenagers. Rather, they're adults in their 30s and 40s. While Twitter definitely has its appeal for personal micro-blogging, it can work well for your business. The key is not to think of it as a service that will bring in tons of money.
Although it can be used as a marketing tool, I think it's more of a branding tool. It helps you reach out to your audience, including folks that haven't heard of you before. On that level, you stay in front of people's minds. There are definite things you should and shouldn't do on Twitter when using it both, in general, and for your small business. Here are 9 tips to help you get on your way to tweeting successfully.
1. Follow to be followed
In the Twitterverse, people won't just follow you because you're you. Okay, in some cases they will. But to really expand on that, you need to start making friends. On Twitter, you do that by following others. The key here is to have a sincere interest in that person or business rather than just following them for following sake. Bonus points if they're a field closely related to yours.
2. Be conversational
Twitter is a social media site which means you have to be social. Don't just go about your Twitter way and post stuff without ever replying to others. And if you're not posting much at all, what's the point? Get out there and share your thoughts, ideas, tips, questions, etc.!
3. Be authentic
Authenticity is seriously lacking in business these days. On Twitter, like with anything else, be real. Be authentic. It will show and earn you respect and loyalty from customers.
4. Don't automate it
With so much technology and ways to automate things (such as canned email replies), it's easy to become complacent in interacting with customers. Don't do it. It will become painfully obvious to anyone following you and you'll lose more than just followers for doing it. See point 4 above.
5. Ask questions
Don't be afraid to ask questions! Trying to figure out what features to include for your next product launch? Ask! Wondering who will be at that tradeshow you're attending? Ask! Twitter is a great way to get feedback and answers from a variety of people.
6. Answer questions
Similarly, don't hesitate to answer questions. Customers may contact you via Twitter with simple questions (which is a good thing). Just be sure to answer them, even if it's as simple as telling them to open a support ticket or to call you.
7. Don't jam your tweets with promos only
While Twitter can certainly help your business and bring in some quick sales, don't fill up your tweets with nothing but promos. Doing it is fine, but overdoing it will get old and will start to feel spammy.
8. Don't be afraid to share personal stuff
Many people like to know the people behind the business. So, don't be afraid to share some personal things. Granted, there may be a limit to that (especially depending on your comfort level), but cheering for your favorite team or showing off your most recent nature photos is all fine and dandy.
9. Customize your Twitter page
Take advantage of the ability to customize your Twitter page by having it match your branding. Just don't overdo it!
What about you?
Do you have any additional tips that have helped you gain brand awareness on Twitter? Post them in the comments!