Can Twitter actually help my business or is it a complete waste of my valuable time?
What is Twitter?
“Twitter is instant messaging made available to the public.” Others call Twitter a micro-blogging platform. Data has revealed that each day 5 to 10 thousand new people join Twitter. Current estimates of total users are above 300 million. Twitter allows you to post updates (called Tweets) as often as you want, but limited to 140 characters. When you follow other people on Twitter, you see their tweets in your newsfeed. When they follow you, they see your tweets in their newsfeed. It is a constant stream of communication.
Why high-profile people use Twitter
Some high-profile people have identified three big advantages of Twitter:
- They get great insights when they ask questions.
- People on Twitter spread their thoughts and ideas to new places.
- They get more traffic.
Practical ways Twitter can help your business:
- Following the right people on Twitter is key. Start with the most important strategy. You need to build relationships with your prospects. One tool that has been highly effective for a number of entrepreneurs is the ‘Advanced Twitter Search’ feature.
- Increase brand awareness. Twitter is a terrific way to increase brand awareness. As one of the most recognisable brands in the world, McDonald’s “I’m Lovin’ It” slogan has been around since 2003. In an effort to spice up the theme, McDonald’s launched a ‘Pay with Lovin’ campaign that they promoted through Twitter and other social media channels. The campaign showed ads of customers coming into the store and being offered free meals in exchange for warm gestures to family and friends. The Tweets that were sent out during this time successfully promoted the company. Think how your business could use Twitter to build awareness around your brand in South Africa, or the world.
- Keep up with trends. Are you up to date with the latest news in the world? What about in your own industry? If not, then use Twitter to stay current. The easiest way to do this is through hashtags. Hashtags are the short keywords or phrases Twitter users use to mark a topic. For example, when big South Africans brands want to celebrate a milestone or promotion, they will publish content about it which includes a hashtag with their name (e.g. “#OurCompanyBirthday”).
For more information, contact Karlien Theart at karlien@succeedgroup.co.za
This article is a general information sheet and should not be used or relied on as professional advice. No liability can be accepted for any errors or omissions nor for any loss or damage arising from reliance upon any information herein.