Have you ever Tweeted? If you haven’t, then you're missing out on one of today's best social media tools. Twitter isn't just a place where people tell each other about their favorite TV shows or divulge their daily rants. Twitter is also a social marketing tool that many businesses are using to gain a wide reach of followers, from non-profit organizations, to law offices and attorneys, to self storage facilities. If you're marketing budget is stretched thin, consider using Twitter as a free tool to other types of advertising.
Twitter vs. other Social Media Networks
Most businesses already have a Facebook page, but have neglected Twitter. Some have set up professional LinkedIn profiles, too. The only downside to sticking with Facebook is that it can cost money (paying for Facebook ads) to gain a large following on Facebook, and actually grow a large, substantial fan base. Twitter doesn't cost a thing, and you don't have to actively recruit fans through promotions and product giveaways. Instead, you can follow other businesses and people. Chances are, they will follow you back. You can use this technique to build a Twitter fanbase.
There are free tools you can use to ensure that you are speaking to your target demographic, including a tool called Twellow.com, which helps you search for users based on their interests. For instance, if you run a non-profit organization, look for users interested in non-profit work or events. If you run a wine shop, search for users that list wine as one of their main interests, and follow them. This helps you build up a base of followers that are going to read your Tweets and follow them, and possibly retweet them for other users to see.
Another great way to keep followers engaged on any social networking site is to update content regularly, and keep content interesting. People enjoy reading blogs, watching videos, looking at pictures and learning about special deals and bargains. Update your Twitter page several times a day or more to keep your audience interested in what you're saying and to remind them of your presence.
One of the biggest mistakes businesses make with their social media pages is ignoring them. Post links to informative blogs and share relevant information people can read rather than just saying “Happy Friday” every week. Keep the audience intrigued with your business and you'll continue to gain a following.
140 Characters! That's It?
Consider that when you post a Tweet, you only have 140 characters to work with. Therefore, you have to get to the point. Make the update stand out by adding an image or video, which means the Tweet is more likely to get clicked on and retweeted. Another great advantage of Twitter over Facebook is that every user will see every update you post; unlike Facebook where updates can be filtered. If you're just starting out, make sure your profile, picture, and username represent you well and make you look as professional as you are.
ROI Online has seen tremendous success with its clients by implementing social media strategies. If you would like to increase your current Twitter following or learn how to start Tweeting, ROI Online can be your social media sidekick. Are you struggling to gain a following? Do you not know what to say? Tell us what obstacles you are encountering with Twitter and other social media networks in the comment section below!
