eSum Web SolutionsHere we summarise one of the most recent additions to the world of online social media, Twitter. Advice on what it is, how to use it, what to do and, just as importantly, what NOT to do when "Tweeting".
If you are already on Twitter do get in touch with @KevinWarman
So what is Twitter?
Twitter is a free, live way of communicating with millions of people and businesses. By building a network of people you follow (i.e. you receive THEIR tweets) and people who follow you (i.e. they receive YOUR tweets) you can find people looking for your products and you can tell people what products you are selling.
How does Twitter work?
“Tweets” have a maximum length of 140 characters so your message must be kept short and sweet. You simply create your message, click “Send” and your message is online and available to millions of people worldwide.
How do I know who to follow on Twitter?
The simplest way to get started is to use the “Search” function. If your business is local/regional try searching for tweets that include a local town or area name. For instance we would search for "kent" or "Cranbrook". When you find Tweets from people who appear to be in your area simply click to “Follow” them. They will be notified that you are following them and may, if your tweets and/or profile look interesting, follow you back. You now have a follower. Click on your follower/s profile and you can see all the people that THEY follow AND all the people who follow them. Chances are that if this person is interesting to you so might their followers be. Have a look at their followers and if they are interesting follow them too. Now for each of them you have a whole new bunch of followers to investigate. As you can see, your list of people you follow can grow exponentially. The list of people following you however will depend on how interesting your own Tweets are!
What should I Tweet about?
Imagine you go to a party where you don’t know anyone. If your opening line is “Hi, I’ve got a company that sells widgets, do you want to buy some widgets”, it’s a fair bet you won’t be invited back! On the other hand if you show some interest in what the other party-goers do and start to build relationships there’s a much better chance they’ll be happy to keep talking to you. At some point they’ll be interested to know more about you (which they can get from your Twitter profile) and then they may want whatever it is you are selling or they may know someone who does. It’s all about relationships. If you hard sell, if you repeat yourself constantly (spam!) then you’ll be un-followed and your message won’t come across. Twitter may be virtual, but it’s a relationship like any other business link. Mention how the day’s gone, mention successes and things you are pleased about with your business and people will keep listening. For instance we might tweet "Great new website design launched today for Kent based -----, let us know what you think!" . That helps to advertise what you do, and advertises your clients too which will please them, without ramming it down peoples throats.
...and don’t forget...
Take the time to search for comments about your company or products. Opportunities could come at any time
Use Twitter to get feedback on goods and services or to ask for advice before launching new products
Don’t ignore people! Make sure you check for mentions of your own Twitter name and thank those who have recommended or re-tweeted you and respond to any direct messages.
Tweet about special offers, discounts, last opportunities and time-limited deals. Make sure it looks like you are doing people a favour by letting them know that time is running out and you don’t want them to miss out.
Provide FREE information. Show your expertise in your field by providing free knowledge. Chances are people will realise that they need what you do and that YOU are helpful person to do business with.
Make sure you re-tweet interesting posts to your own followers. Your followers will benefit from knowing you and the original Tweeter will be grateful for the help.
THINK before you tweet. The simple guide is Don’t say anything that you wouldn’t be prepared to say out loud in a room full of complete strangers who might include employees of your best customer...or your nearest competitor!
For more information or for help with YOUR social media strategy (we can manage your social media for you leaving you to get on with running your business!) contact kevin.warman@esum-web-solutions.co.uk or on twitter @KevinWarman
