Twitter, tweeting? What’s it all about? In a word: networking. Twitter is a simple concept that allows people to stay connected using quick messages that can be viewed at Twitter dot com by pretty much anyone.
Many people have termed tweeting “micro-blogging,” a daily accounting of your doings, but instead of as a blog, in quick online texting. Twitter is unique in that it’s a fast, simple way to grow your database and reach out to your network daily in fast snippets.
The concept for Twitter was created by a gentleman named Jack Dorsey. Jack simply wanted to know what his friends were up to. Not too long after that, a business was built around the concept of asking people one simple question, "What are you doing?"
Some industry experts indicate Twitter has over 14 million visitors and has well over six million registered users, with that number predicted to double by the end of this year and triple in 2010 to 18 million registered users.
Twitter has become a powerful networking tool for small businesses, though Twitter can be used for small business networking, or by individuals simply seeking to stay in touch with family and friends.
When you visit Twitter’s website, you can create an account with a username and password, and you can upload a photo of yourself if you want. You can also list your company’s website address, which, as a small business owner, is invaluable.
You must answer, “What are you doing?” in under 140 characters. Your answer is considered “tweeting.” You can send your answers, “tweets,” via the web, by texting using your cell phone, or via instant messaging.
You can “follow” other tweeters online with the click of a button. Simply search for individuals by their name or business name and click the “follow” button. When YOU get a new follower, you are sent an email saying so-in-so is following you via Twitter. From this email, you can view that person’s Twitter profile with the click of your mouse. You can then click out to their website and get their contact information. From there, you can reach out to that individual to establish a relationship beyond Twitter.
Not only is Twitter is a nice ice breaker in growing your networking list, another benefit is subtle accountability. Once you set up your Twitter account, your small business will have an online audience. If you don’t show up to tweet regularly, your followers may wonder what has happened to you and your business.
The majority of busy entrepreneurs appear to view Twitter as the best thing since sliced bread. However, some users find the site to be overloaded with blatant advertising, which can be distracting.
As a small business owner, try using the personal approach in tweeting. Here are some helpful tips to assist you in effective tweeting:
• List your company’s website address in your formal Twitter profile, NOT in your tweets.
• When possible, tweet between the hours of 7:30 and 10 a.m. EST. (best traffic)
• Use your real name instead of your company name so people can get a peek at you. Why? People tend to do business with “people” they like.
• Tweet “real stuff” instead of business fluff. Here’s a sample tweet: “Online marketing this morning. Heading to park for exercise. Gearing up for long week next week w/new foreclosure cleanup business client.” You can tweet an article or other information every now and then, but, in most part, trying giving people a glimpse of your daily doings.
• “SEO” your tweets. SEO stands for search engine optimization, which is simply using key words and phrases that make it easier for people to find you online. Use popular industry key words and phrases in your tweets that will drive traffic to your tweets, which in turn, will drive people to your website and ultimately your business.
Remember, tweeting is simply a form of networking, getting your or your business’ name out there, growing your mailing list, and letting existing and potential customers and colleagues know your business exists.
Twitter can be a powerful social media marketing outlet for busy small business owners when used effectively. To stay on track, always keep your ultimate tweeting goal in mind: to make contacts and grow your business. But by no means do you have to be stodgy and formal. You can have fun with Twitter.
Happy tweeting to my investors out there!
Cassandra Black, CEO, Foreclosure Cleanup, LLC, Author, Pricing Guide for Foreclosure Cleaning & Real-Estate Service Businesses
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Blog by Cassandra Black
Follow Cassandra Black on Twitter: http://twitter.com/foreclosuredirt
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