Here is a simple way to maximize the use of Twitter in your organization. Consider a three course meal with appetizer (to whet the appetite), entree (main course), and dessert (for complete satisfaction). Here’s how it’s done…
Appetizer…
1. Tweets should be valuable, not just informative. So write copy that piques the appetite and by all means, include a link to the next course! Since you are limited to 140 characters per tweet, use a URL shortener like tinyurl.com or if you want to make it even simpler, install a free client like TweetDeck.com and update your Facebook at the same time as your Twitter account. Tweetdeck plays well with iPhone also.
Entree…
2. Now that you know how to make your tweets valuable, where do you want to send your followers? NOT TO THE DESSERT TABLE! First you have to build their confidence in you and your organization. Perhaps linking your Tweet to your blog or social media group’s Ning or Facebook page, is the next best step. This means you need to write something meaningful about the final destination your followers will enjoy for dessert. Why is it important they click on the link you are providing in your blog/group page/etc? What is the benefit to them? (Sell the sizzle, not the steak).
Dessert…
3. Now you can link your followers to the final article, photo, document, etc. that will give them the benefits they seek.
Let’s Review…
1. Whet the appetite with Twitter and link to your own site/blog/page/group/etc.
2. Feed them why YOU think this info benefits them and give them.
3. End with a link to the final destination.
For examples of this “Best Practice” follow http://twitter.com/rww or my own tweets at http://twitter.com/dallasm12
