Twitter is a social media platform that allows users to post short messages called tweets. Key aspects of Twitter include: - Tweets are limited to 140 characters - Users can follow other accounts to see their tweets - Mentions using @username allow public replies and conversations - Hashtags like #fireworks allow users to find tweets on specific topics - Direct messages allow private conversations between followers - Strategic use of tweets can help promote businesses and drive traffic to websites - Engaging with other users through sharing, retweeting, and starting discussions helps build connections and communities on Twitter.

1. Twitter!What it is and how to use itSandy KetchamThe Word Prowww.thewordpro.comTwitter.com/thewordpro

4. GlossaryTweet - “What are you doing” in 140 characters or less.Follow – See what another person is “tweeting.”Unfollow – Stop seeing another’s tweetsTwittosphere – Everyone on TwitterLink – Add a URL to your tweetBit.ly – a way to shorten a URL for Twitter

5. @TheWordPro@username – a way to send a Public Message to individual user.Everyone will see itA way to respond openly or mention someone. Your followers will see it; @username’s followers will also see it.

7. DM – Direct MessageOne-on-one message to someone who is following youNot Public Like email – only shorterYou can have direct messages go to your email.There is a DM Link on your Twitter Home Page.

9. #HashtagA way for people to follow a certain topicE.g. #fireworksPeople add # (hashtags) to tweets to alert others interested in that subjectUse www.search.twitter.com to find subjects, including hashtagsubjects

11. ApplicationsThere are hundreds. Here are a few…

24. Twitter StrategyPique interestDirect people to your WebsiteLink to your blog entriesLink to Articles that show why folks need you.NOT a place to sell. …but you can post “specials” or coupons

25. Strategy: Get their attention!

27. Things to do on Twitter…Share what is going on in your community. (e.g. A parade, an expo, a Chamber Event.)Be helpful. Offer tips to help customers (e.g. Insurance agent: Car care tips.)Talk about non-business things Ask questionsConduct an opinion pollComment on other’s tweets to build a communityRetweet interesting things

28. More things…Monitor your name/brand/industryMonitor your competitionKeep current on breaking newsLearn from the “experts” in your fieldBecome an “expert” in your fieldDirect attention to good thingsShow you are human (personal, but not too personal)Start a conversation…

29. Follow…Follow people and subjects that interest youFollow leaders in your fieldFollow your competitorsFollow your customers Follow your SuppliersFollow influential people in your town/state/countryFollow your mentors Follow interesting people.Follow people who make you laugh 

30. Be followedUnless your Ashton Kutcher or Oprah, people are not going to flock to your Twitter page.Say interesting/useful thingsUse good keywords and #hashtagsRetweet things from high profile peopleAdd links to your Twitter Account on your website, email, business card, marketing pieces – everywhere you can!Evangelize! Tell people about Twitter!

31. Follow me on Twitter…Twitter.com/thewordproRead my blog: www.sandyketcham.blogspot.comCheck out my website: www.thewordpro.comLink with me on LinkedIN: http://www.linkedin.com/in/sandyketcham

32. Thank you. Sandy KetchamThe Word Prowww.thewordpro.com(815) 556-8505“Innovative Marketing for Small Business”