Twitter Step by Step

September 15, 2009 by Mary White-Cornell
Filed under Blog

If you’re new to Twitter, the whole thing can be a mind-boggling experience. Here are some basic functions every effective business Twitter user should know.

STEP ONE

Before you attempt to dive into Twitter, take a moment or two to set up your profile. Make sure you add a picture of your logo – Do not leave the Brown o_O Avatar up for display. Type up a 140 character mini bio…list something interesting about yourself or your business and a link to your website or blog.

STEP TWO

What is your agenda? Why are you taking the Twitter plunge? Do you want to meet and connect with others on a social or business level? Do you want to create awareness and drive customers to your business? Do you want to connect with people who live in your city or state? These are important things to consider. One of he best resources to use is www.twello.com – it is the yellow pages for Twitter. You can literally search for any keywords you choose.

STEP THREE

When joining Twitter, no matter your age, you may want to consider how you behave in public. Don’t be rude. Don’t tweet utterly useless information. Make sure you tweet relevant content always keeping your customer in mind. Do you have a new happy hour special? How about an upcoming event? Do you want to wish one of your favorite customers a Happy Birthday? Do you have a new recipe that you posted on your blog? These are the things your readers care about.

STEP FOUR

Remember on Twitter brevity is king – You’ve got 140 characters or less in which to communicate . Abbreviating words, substituting words with numbers (.ie to=2, for=4, etc.), and policing your verbosity will aid you in effective tweeting!

If you have a long URL link that you want to include in your tweet go to http://bit.ly/ where you can shorten it.

STEP FIVE

If you are tweeting for business – you should follow everyone that follows you. You will get messages in your email regarding everyone that is following you. Make sure to click on the link and follow them back.

STEP SIX

Make sure and keep active – tweet at least 2 or 3 times a day

STEP SEVEN

Twitter is kind of like kindergarten – start making friends. Reach out and follow others, thank people that follow you. Offer great content and news worthy posts. Invite people into your business – if someone sends you a direct message (DM) make sure and get back to them.

STEP EIGHT

As you get more used to Twitter, you’ll start seeing its applications in all sorts of ways. For example, some brands (like JetBlue and Whole Foods) offer customer service on Twitter. You can ask questions and get immediate answers.

STEP NINE

Have fun and remember Twitter is a remarkable and FREE way to connect with your customers and potential customers. If you ever have questions or need help be sure and give us a shout at

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