With Twitter being in the news so often, many people are curious and ready to give it a try.
Getting started on Twitter is easy. Go to Twitter.com, create a username for yourself, enter a password, and get started. Include a thumbnail photo, a short bio (160 characters), and a link to your website. If you just started don’t worry about funky backgrounds or having the best bio. You can easily change that later.
Once you’ve set up your account, you’re ready to go. However, writing Tweets (messages on Twitter) without having anyone following you is a little a walking down the street talking to yourself.
So the first thing you need to do is find some people to follow. You can check out some high profile people on Twitter such as Chris Brogan or Andrea Stenberg :-). You can check out people you already know who are on Twitter. Start following them. Then check out who they are following. If you find someone who is interesting, start following them as well. Once you are following 15 or 20 people, you can be assured that some of them will begin following the back.
Now is the time to start Tweeting.
Many business people are worried that they’re going to be expected to talk about going for lunch, eating a sandwich, or going to the bathroom. I’m here to tell you that unless you’re a toddler still in diapers, no one cares about your bowel movements.
So what should you say?
Sharing links to interesting blog posts, websites, videos, or other resources are always popular. If you consistently provide links to materials your audience will find useful, they will keep paying attention.
Some people Tweet inspirational or motivational quotations by famous or not so famous people. If you think this is something your audience would find useful or entertaining you can easily plan your quotes for the coming days, weeks or even months.
If you or someone you know is planning an event, Tweet about it.
Information that is helpful to your audience is always useful. For example, nearing tax time an accountant could tweak tips for making your accounting bill smaller. A fitness instructor could Tweet about exercises that can be done at the desk.
But you don’t want to be serious all the time. If you’re only talking business, you’re going to be boring. Sharing funny stories, or links to humorous videos or photos can give someone a laugh or smile. The key is to mix up the serious with the fun and stay in character.
Retweet other interesting Tweets you see. Sharing information and giving credit is part of the culture of Twitter. When you Retweet an interesting post, your audience will appreciate the information, and the original Twitter will appreciate you spreading the word.
If you’re just getting started on Twitter, it may take some getting used to speaking in 140-character bites. However, with some practice and patience it will start feeling natural.
Andrea J. Stenberg
Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter? Do they share interesting tips, great links or just make you fall off your chair laughing? Share their Twitter pages so newbies can have someone to follow.
