Twitter for Business

Although often considered strictly a social tool, Twitter can be extremely effective for businesses if used properly.  Several key steps, however, are necessary if businesses are to succeed by using this microblog.

First, a company should not dive right into tweeting before they clearly define their purpose for using Twitter.  Several different strategies have been adopted by businesses in the past, including generating leads, building brand awareness, or communicating with an audience.  Tweets should be built around a specific goal so that choosing the information that should be shared, as well as whom to follow will become easier.

Another important idea that businesses should be aware of is the importance of reciprocation in the Twitter world.  In order to achieve maximum success with this tool, businesses should increase activity in regards to other Twitter pages.  This will cause a feeling of obligation to return the favor, thus promoting activity and benefitting both parties.  Examples include "favoriting" and "retweeting" specific tweets and following other profiles.

Within a business, it is vital that the right person is charged with the important task of sending out tweets.  This person should have several qualities such as being knowledgable, trustworthy and a good listener.  Listening is especially important on Twitter, as it is essentially a communication tool, and responses are usually expected.  Every young, tech savvy intern may not possess all these qualities, so a careful decision is paramount in determining the proper person to assign this role.

These are merely a few basic tips for using Twitter for business, so I highly suggest you check out some of these useful sites for more information before you start.  31 Twitter Tips for Businesses and How to Use Twitter for Business both have some great advice.  Thanks for reading, and good luck!