A Strategic Approach to Using Twitter for Business

I discovered this great infographic on developing a strategic approach to using Twitter for business and wanted to share it with you.  The difficulty many businesses have with the concept of social media marketing and incorporating it into their overall marketing strategy comes mainly from NOT having a plan.  Sometimes it’s deeper than that, its fear, fear of the unknown.  What does Twitter do? WIFM? How do I manage this venue?

Firstly, what is your “strategy”?  In other words, what “need” do you have to fill?

• Customer relations?
• Crisis management?
• Event coverage?
• Product promotions and sales?
• Issue advocacy? or
• Corporate reputation management?

Next, who will likely follow you? and whom should you follow?

• Your customers and potential customers?
• Your brand, products and relevant issues?
• Industry leaders, similar interest groups, news/media?
• Those interested in attending events, media outlets?
• Current and potential customers, those interested in similar products?
• Those interested in your cause, industry leaders, news?

What should you create – what is the content – for your Tweets?

• Content relevant to your customers: tips, company info, etc.
• Direct to additional resources, updated information, explanations
• Insights, expertise, becoming a thoughtful leader
• Event information, updates, behind the scenes coverage,
• Links to online promos, insider info on upcoming sales, discount codes
• Added value: health tips, disaster alerts, fundraising info

Then, how should you engage and interact with your Twitter followers?

• Answer questions, respond to comments about your brand
• Answer questions, respond to comments, raise issues, provide info
• Jump into the conversation, be transparent and add value
• Set up Tweet-ups, talk to attendees, ask and answer questions
• Check replies and DMs, answer questions, provide info when required
• Know your followers, thank them for support, get them involved.

These are some great tips for effectively using Twitter for promoting your business or cause on Twitter.  Take a moment to review this information and decide if  your current Twitter/social media strategy is following these guidelines.