Twitter is a free social networking and microblogging tool that allows users to post short updates called tweets that are limited to 140 characters. Users follow other users and see their tweets in a feed on their Twitter homepage. Companies can use Twitter to communicate with customers, promote new products and services, and manage their reputation. Effective tweets provide value to followers rather than just sales pitches, and companies should engage with followers by answering questions and giving feedback.

1. http://scienceforseo.blogspot.com

2. What is Twitter? It’s a free social networking and micro-blogging tool (allows only short updates)‏ Updates (Tweets) are limited to 140 characters The user has a page where these are listed The user also follows other users, the other user’s updates appear in feed format on the user’s twitter homepage And that’s the extent of it in a nutshell

3. How can it benefit my company? It allows you to communicate with customers and prospective customers It allows you to spread the word for new products and services By tracking you company on Twitter you can manage your reputation You can identify who is influencing your brand You can link Facebook and Twitter together to create a large community It promotes transparency

4. How to Tweet Give value: offer something to the community and not just sales pitches and company info Answer questions Give feedback Follow those who follow you Offer context before showcasing products or services Ask people for their opinions Be involved

5. Example Tweets (always preceded by user name )‏ Info: Emma “We’re knocking off 30% if you buy online : http://www/company.com/produ ct ” Poll: Emma “Are the roads frozen at your end?” Personal message: Emma “The roads are icy stay safe” Blog update: Emma “Find out how to change a tyre: http://www.company.com/b log/tyre

6. Example Tweet replies (always preceded by @name )‏ John My bike got stolen! @John Check out Kryptonite locks, your bike won’t get stolen again http://www.kryptonite.co m Kai I’ve just launched my new site – what do you think? @Kai It looks cool, but I don’t like the borders Lillian This is a great video about the history of hip hop http://www.video .com @Lillian cool – have you seen this one http://www.videocoo l.com Julie I’m looking for a good web designer – get in touch if you can help @Julie I’m a web design ninja and I need a job – I’ll send you a message

7. What it looks like & How it works

8. Follower info Tweets Add to People You follow Info People Starbucks follows

9. Companies that make the most of Twitter

13. Setting up a Twitter account Click here to join

14. Fill in the form

15. Add your site URL

16. Get updates on your mobile

17. Add a profile picture

18. Change your background design and personalise the page

19. Followers Twellow is the Twitter yellow pages – find people with interests that match your Product or service.

20. Other methods Follow people back – it helps grow the Twitter community and creates friendly ties Put a link to your Twitter profile on your site and in your email signature. Tell everyone about it!

21. Tools & useful things Allows you to track mentions of specific keywords and URLs Allows you to add your RSS feed to your Twitter profile

22. Get stats on your tweets

23. http://www.twitter.com