Twitter is a social networking platform that has taken the Internet by storm and enticed millions of addicted users – humorously referred to as “Tweeple”. Businesses are starting to catch on to the latest craze and realize the value of Twitter as a huge potential marketplace. Many companies now utilize the Web 2.0 behemoth to promote products, build brand recognition and connect with consumers in real-time.
Twitter offers a great business opportunity and if you have not yet climbed aboard this addictive gravy train – here are the best ways to optimize a Twitter account for promotional usage and maximum business potential.
Twitter Profile Page
1. Background
A profile page should appear professional and not garish, tacky or cheap. Do not be tempted to use the default setting – it suggests a lack of effort and creativity. If you business has a recognized logo, or brand colors, the profile page is the place to display these.
2. URL and Bio
A Twitter profile page will let you add a website URL and a bio. For a business, a bio should not be used for obvious sales pitches – this will suggest you are not interested in offering sincere information and are only occupied with taking, and not giving. The bio must include valuable information about the business, what it stands for and how it operates. A quality bio promotes professionalism and integrity.
Following and Followers
A business optimized Twitter account will look for targeted people to follow, that possess similar interests as the business itself. One technique to achieve this outcome would be to enter a competitors – or related – business name into the Twitter search function and see if any of them have a Twitter account. Then you simply follow their followers.
A second method uses the Twitter search function again. Query relevant keywords that relates to your business – or search for actual keywords already utilized by your business. If anybody has these keyword terms on their profile page, or if anyone has recently posted (referred to as “tweeting”) and included these keywords – follow those users.
Correct Tweeting Methods for Business
A tweet is not a mini sales pitch: it is a place to post useful information for followers; make them aware of recent developments; and build trust and customer relations. URL links can be added to posts and can – in the right circumstances – be used to direct followers to a new blog post, or new product. A good practice to get into, is to tweet other useful industry information you come across – even if it does not directly concern your own business, or company. This suggests that you are selfless and are willing to offer unbiased information and advice – and good quality for building trust.
Consider offering discounts or free incentive codes for people that follow your twitter, this will both increase your following and long term profitability.
Interaction Means Customer Satisfaction
These are just some of the basic principles that any business, looking to step into the Twitter marketplace, should be adopting – if they want to get the most out of Twitter. A healthy strategy would be to view Twitter, not as an opportunity to hard-sell and make a fast buck, but as a real-time platform for liaising with potential customers and enhancing future business relations.
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