3 Tips to Get You Followed on Twitter—by the Right Audience

Now that you’ve decided to market your company on Twitter, it would be easy (and sleazy) to randomly follow as many people as possible in hopes that they will return the favor. The logic of the mass follow—i.e. that casting a wider net yields a heavier catch—is dated. It recalls the days when a local business would distribute direct mail to everyone in the city, in hopes that a dozen people would open the envelope and two would care what was inside. This tactic is also transparent, especially by the savvy inhabitants of the Web frontier. So how can a business establish a presence and grow a brand on Twitter the right way?

Make meaningful connections

No, this doesn’t require taking someone out for a glass of wine and asking about their life—but use the networking skills you’ve honed in your business when deciding whom to follow. If you’re in the book industry, follow editors, writers, book critics, literary magazines, publishers, agents, private consultants, and so on. A realtor? Do a search for mortgage brokers, lenders, real estate professionals in your area, and individuals using terms regarding buying or selling property. The first step in establishing a valuable online presence is to build a circle of contemporaries whom you can both learn from and educate.

Have an opinion

Have you ever read a blog that bores you to anger because it’s so banal? Think of Twitter as a mini-blog. There’s no need for snarkiness (unless it suits your brand), but don’t be afraid to share your opinions on the things you know. Link or retweet an article you just read in a newspaper or magazine, and offer a fresh perspective on it. In short, be the guest who gets invited back to the next dinner party.

Save the blatant self-promotion

When used well, Twitter can help any business increase name recognition—which is great. But you won’t win friends, followers, or clients by constantly shouting how great your company is. Choose your self-promotion wisely. Offer Twitter-exclusive sales and coupons; reward people for allowing you into their online lives. When relevant, link to longer articles or blog posts you’ve written, but don’t forget to acknowledge other experts as well. No one likes a know-it-all.

Hope this is helpful in getting you started on Twitter. Keep reading the Twitter series for more advice on using this unique networking tool to your advantage!

Photo credit: tanakawho