Earlier this week I discovered that Ken Evoy, owner of SiteSell, has joined Twitter. Given the fact that Ken has such a huge following online already, due to the popularity of his SBI! (Site Build It!) program, Twitter would seem like a perfect addition. But strangely enough, Ken just doesnt get it.
That seems to be the case with almost everyone that hears about Twitter.com - either before they join, or when they first set up their account. I'll confess that I really didnt "get it" myself in the beginning. In fact, I set up my account on April Fool's Day if that tells you anything π ...
Fast forward to 4 1/2 months later, and I now consider Twitter to be one of my best assets. This is a common perception-switch, one I've heard about over and over from within the twittersphere. Its getting to the point that its almost humorous to hear people talk about Twitter from the outside.
For example, see Twitter, A Below Average Business-Building Activity by Ken Evoy (@KEvoy). Steve Pavlina (@stevepavlina), popular personal development blogger and another twitter newbie, has a more positive outlook going in. See his "I'm giving it a shot" post here: Twitter by Steve Pavlina.
Steve offers a great overview of Twitter.com at that post, if you're still unsure what its all about. Basically, Twitter is a micro-blogging service that allows you to post updates in 140 characters or less.
The key to Twitter is in who you follow, and who follows you. Consider it a bite-size, real time, super simple RSS reader. You follow the people you want to get updates from, and you build a following of people who want to get updates from you.
These updates are called "tweets", and they are much more than just updates. You can tell your followers about your latest blog post, what you're doing, about your upcoming calendar, to announce live events such as webinars or webcasts. But you can also get involved in conversations with other tweeters, and that's where the real value lies...
As you can see in the tweets above, I spoke with Patrick O'Keefe directly regarding a possible interview at an upcoming event (BWE). Where else can you have casual conversation with almost any of your favorite authors, bloggers & speakers 24 hours a day?!
Still, those on the outside just dont get it. In a recent discussion on my forum, one of the members said:
I'll vote "a complete waste of time." Prediction: This too shall pass. Dunno. Maybe it's just me. I don't get the passion for zipping a few characters about nothing much back and forth. source
I dont see Twitter "passing" anytime soon. It has become part of daily business for thousands of users, and is currently my #1 referrer for unique visitors to my blog. In addition to meeting new readers and increasing website traffic, I use twitter to scout out new resources and content to share with my readers. I also use it to meet & communicate with affiliate managers, potential JV partners, my readers & members, and other influential people in my industry.
When I see someone like Ken Evoy join Twitter, I immediately see huge potential. As I said, he already has a large following online, and that following is made up of both customers and affiliates.
Ideally Ken would send out both product and affiliate updates, news about new products and/or sales on existing products, links to his latest blog posts, links to new SBI success stories, and more. Just imagine if he had all of his raving fans tweeting about SiteSell products, and their affiliate opportunity!
What about you? Were you skeptical at first, but ultimately converted to a daily tweeter?
Let's help Ken, and others who just havent picked up on the power of Twitter yet. Leave a comment below and share ONE thing you have achieved using Twitter, that you might not have achieved otherwise. How has Twitter helped your online business?
Best,
p.s. If you arent already following me on Twitter, you can find me there @LynnTerry. Leave your own Twitter URL in the link field when you leave your comment below.
About Lynn Terry
Hi Lynn,
I must admit that when I first took a look at Twitter, I couldn’t see how it could possibly help me build my business, but I decided to give it a shot anyway.
Within just a few hours after opening my Twitter account, I had figured out how it works plus added 26 subscribers to my newsletter’s mailing list, strictly from Twitter.
And something that not many people realize is that not only is Twitter an excellent research tool, but if you use the "right" keywords, your "tweets" can be indexed by Google sometimes within hours.
As with any marketing tool you use to communicate, providing relevant participation is the key to making the best use of Twitter.
Sharon McPherson
@SharonMcP
Well, I wouldn’t mind being Twitter Γ’β¬ΕInΓ’β¬Β, but after several months, I admit I still feel kind on the periphery. Twitter’s the first social networking site I’ve partaken in, prompted by podcaster Leo Laporte and co. I check it 2-3 times a day and am constantly entertained by the interesting people I follow, such as Lynn. I do go long periods without posting anything. I see the value for marketing your online activities, when you’ve got something going on. Some of us are not naturally chatty, though, so the constant casual interaction thing doesn’t necessarily come easily (I use my cell phone maybe 5 minutes a month). I’d be very interested in other thoughts on this.
--Wade
I admit - I wasn't even close to being an early adopter to Twitter. I took the stance that it wasn't right for my business and that it was just another social networking arena.
Wow - am I glad I joined. It has been outstanding for my business.
Not only have I added e-zine subscribers and gotten visitors to my blog, but I've created JV's through Twitter, I've had people purchase my products b/c they met me on Twitter, and I've met some really amazing people that will help my business grow.
Twitter is probably one of the best things I've done to reach my niche this year.
I love that twitter is a great way to socialize with other people online.
For me, I have secured interviews as well, and have increased subscribers, along with traffic to my site.
I enjoy it, it's my time to tweet with my friends mostly and share together on a more personal level.
Hi Lynn,
I'm definitely in with Twitter. I've recently met a group of wonderful coaches and other helpers working through the 30DC together. It's great for so many reasons, but if nothing else, for expanding my horizons and feeding my lifelong learning habit.:)
Thanks for a great question.
Lael
Sandy - I agree - it can be distracting. I schedule my Twitter time - just like every other marketing activity in my business.
Some days I have a good deal of time for it, other days, not-so-much. Some days, I'm on top of lots of conversations, other days I pick out 1 or 2 things to follow up on.
As with everything it's all about balance.
I treat it like every other marketing activity - and when I'm not using it, I turn it off.
I am struggling with Twitter...I realize the potential but I am finding it too distracting. I know I am missing out on a good marketing/socializing opportunity by not using Twitter...How do you guys not let it distract you? Give me tips please.
I'm in.
All the way.
If you're out, you need to get in - quick.
I've been on for a few weeks at my coach's (@kellymccausey) suggestion and have connected with some new friends, found some old ones and struck up a few new friendships including a JV.
I like it! I'm in, too!
Hey Lynn
I'm in -- totally. Now just trying to convert from being a 100% social user to splitting 50.50. I still haven't totally figured out how to tap into my niche though, but I will.
Annemarie O'Bea
@shesquared
I look at Twitter as being much like "list building" except that it is of course much more Web 2.0 and "social". Instead of the traditional one-way communication you have with a mailing list, it is two-way communication with your "readers".
I have all but quit using my RSS reader, and use Twitter instead to scout new content or blog posts or bloggers - which is something I was doing as a part of my normal routine anyway.
Twitter has added so much to my business in the way of networking & communications, that it is most definitely worth the time invested.
Everyone does it differently - uses different apps or methods, for example. I just use the web based version and keep the window open while I'm working. Then I just check in on it from time to time. Usually while I'm waiting on something, or between tasks, that kind of thing.
I have to say that I have loved Twitter from the first day I joined. I tend to take things on with a challenge and want to push all the buttons to see how it works and that is what I did with Twitter. I am also very relational in my approach to business and life so Twitter was perfect fit for this gabber.
The majority of my writing business has come from Twitter helping me to maintain a comfortable weekly income and gain some great clients who have stretched me beyond what I thought I could be stretched with my writing. All of my blogs are frequented often by Twitter folk and that is pretty cool to.
I have sparked up some great relationships and business opts through Tweeting daily.
To those who don't get it I say, give a while and the light bulb will come one π
I am in and have not used twitter as much as you all have but i am learning as I have just started using twitter about a month ago and stiil learning on how to best use twitter.
Govindji Patel
Govindji - your Twitter bio says you install scripts for websites (might say "for webmasters" instead). Have you networked much on Twitter on this particular topic - offering script tips or special offers or anything similar?
You mentioned you were still learning. I'm curious what your perception is so far - and what your experience has been in the first few weeks.
I joined twitter from the 30 day challenge before that I did not know what twitter is so I am just starter at twitter and so far I like it what I can do with twitter that is networking and building relations.
Govindji Patel
Just started tweeting - last week , I think - after having signed up a couple of months ago. Still "figuring it out" and that's fine, fits in with my latest "figuring out" path.
I've met some interesting new people and happened on some old friends. It's great. Looking forward to future connections.
I forgot to add, I'm @InspiredSheila
I got to this post through one of your tweets, so I guess I'm getting the hang of it. Twitter's better than I thought it would be, but I'm still on a learning curve. You've inspired me to find my favorite writers and authors on it, which has been on my "to do" list for days.
One of the most important keys to your personal twitter experience is in who you follow, and who follows you - both of which you control to a large extent.
You want to use the search feature to find people in your industry, to find people talking about your products (or you), to find people talking about your topic (or niche). Seek out the authors, bloggers, podcasters & publishers in your niche and follow them - these are people you want to associate yourself with, and ultimately people that you can set up things with like: interviews, link exchanges, JVs, affiliate opps, etc.
As for your following, the best way to build a specific following is to tweet very specifically. See 5 Ways to Build Your Following at Twitter
If you teach knitting at your website, tweet about knitting tips, knitting deals, knitting resources, knitting experts, knitting videos, etc. People who are into knitting (ie your target market) will WANT to follow you!
I'll share another extreme example for you guys. I follow Lorrie Morgan-Ferrero (aka RedHotCopy - well known female copywriting expert) on Twitter.
Why do you think I follow Lorrie?
You guessed it: for copywriting tips & to stay up to date with what she is offering.
Instead, over the last few months I have learned about her relationship with her husband, about her dog, about her family BBQ events, about her "mani/pedi" appointments, etc, etc, etc. I cant say I've ever heard a single copywriting tip from her.
Result: Unfollow!
Nothing personal, of course. But a great example to bring up here for the purpose of making a point. There is nothing wrong with being casual & real and personable with your tweets. But if you want to use it as a business tool, you need an objective - and your tweets need to attract your ideal followers.
I've been tweeting some, but not quite daily. Some days I'm really into it, others nothing quite seems worth saying.
So far nothing big for me. A few new online friends, which is always nice. Some extra traffic and Stumbles.
I like using Twhirl. Without it on I keep forgetting to check for tweets. I'm pretty good at ignoring it when I really need to be productive, but it allows me to keep up on conversations when I want to.
Hey Stephanie,
On Twitter I noticed you are promoting your http://www.homewiththekids.com/ website. On your site you have a forum, wahm job postings, parenting tips, scam alerts, and much more.
You could easily tweet about all of these same topics on Twitter. There are TONS of moms on Twitter (me included)! You might start discussions on certain micro topics, like single work at home parents, or ask anyone about scam alerts they have experience with, or tweet job opps, etc.
The idea is to become known for what you offer, and to create a following of people who are specifically interested in those things.
Cant wait to see you at BlogWorld! π
Hey Lynn,
I really got it when you said "important keys to your personal twitter experience is in who you follow, and who follows you."
That's key! I've had to Unfollow a lot of people simply because I wasn't interested in what they were saying and gross profanity.
I use to think that twitter was just for personal chatting, which is fine by me, however I also love the fact that I've met some pretty interesting people as well as customers.
Awesome topic! Thanks ~
Me too.
I joined last April, I think, and did not get into it for a few months.
I think what pushed me over the edge was when John Reese made a big deal about getting people to follow him. I figured, if it's good for John I must be missing something.
Twitter grows on me more each day. I've made a lot of friends. Many of them are movers and shakers. Some will be that soon. I can feel it.
Staying power? You bet. I've not even checked out the main competitor yet (Plurck) and I may never do so. Twitter has enough going for me that I don't need to check out the other side of the street.
Hey, cool! It was my pleasure to talk with you. Look forward to doing it more. Twitter is great. π
Patrick
I enjoy using twitter from time to time to check up on what some of the other work at home moms and marketing experts are doing and getting ideas, tips and links to other neat sites to check out. I also received more hits to my sites and more subscribers this way since I send out blog updates and share other events and info related to my site and parenting resources.
I would like to use it for more personal conversation as well as business PR, but so far I don't have enough time to spend chit chatting and I guess I still 'don't get' the chatting aspect of it, but I'm learning and looking forward to knowing more about my followers.
Hi can i follow you on twitter? i have my own twitter w/ the same name. Thanks. (definitely I'm in!)
Hi Lynn,
This is such a dynamic topic. And I actually found you through a tweet by one of your fellow followers, Jenn Givler. Thanks Jenn! As someone who is in the early stages of launching a business , I have been using Twitter primarily as a resource for information as well as establishing connections with those whom have expertise in the areas I am looking to grow in. And it has also been very helpful to observe how others add value to their Twitter community through their tweets. I know that considering the question, "What do I have to share that will add value for my readers?" when composing tweets will certainly help me to better leverage the power of Twitter.
Amy Miyamoto
@amymiyamoto
I also recently heard something else that I found helpful regarding the use of social networking venues like Twitter. Because they are so relationship-based one of the keys to building a following that knows, likes, and trusts you is to become known as a giver of value as well as a an expert in your field. It was suggested that a rule of thumb to follow is to give 7-10 items of valuable resources or connections for every 1 item of self-promotion. I would be interested to hear what others think about this concept.
Twitter allows me to share my knowledge and expertise which, in turn, opens the door for potential clients.
Hi kabonfootprint,
All you have to do is visit each person's Twitter profile, and click the Follow button below their profile photo at the top left. My page is http://www.twitter.com/lynnterry (or @lynnterry).
I just took a look at your profile and can see that you arent following anyone yet, and dont have any followers yet either. You have 9 updates - each of them links to individual blog posts.
To really make the most of Twitter, you want to follow people in your niche, and start conversations - or reply to conversations. Starting a tweet with "New blog entry" is bad form. You want to use your blog topics to engage people in discussions instead.
Both great tips, Amy - great addition to the discussion! I really like the idea of using a qualifying question and also a decent ratio of different types of involvement - conversation, networking, promotion, etc.
Hi Lynn,
I love the ongoing conversation on this topic! I, too, enjoy learning from all aspects of Twitter, tweeting, etc. I am looking for people who are interested in journaling, blogging, creativity, coaching (for self-improvement), writing, jewelry-making and that's just partial list of my favorite topics.
Thanks again Lynn.
Lael Johnson
@coach_gold
RE: chatting & personal conversation...
This has been brought up a few times, so I think its important to clarify a bit on those points. While I dont personally like completely off topic tweets like I mentioned in the example above (with @redhotcopy), I usually just skip over them - unless that's *all* they tweet about. Then I just unfollow.
Otherwise, the majority of conversations are either directly business related, or used as a means to build character and get to know each other on a more personable level. Most people tweet a good mix of both, which is fine - you have a choice on which discussions you get involved with of course.
As for me, I keep most conversations or discussions on topic to internet marketing or working from home. Sometimes we discuss products, methods, upcoming events & meetups, time management or scheduling, books we are reading, working at home with kids, etc - all of which are productive discussions.
There is no other central location on the web that I can stay in tune with whats coming up, whats coming out, or whats going on where. It is definitely a huge asset in that regard.
Hi Lynn! I'm definitely "in" - while I am unable to attribute income from my Twitter activities, it certainly has helped me with developing new relationships. As a Networking Coach, obviously my target market is a little wider than others would be so Twitter gives me the opportunity to reach many with less!
I too skip over some of the personal conversations but one thing I did find is that some very intriguing blog posts have been published on Twitter - blogs that I might not have ever found on my own but that I do enjoy reading and learning from.
Thanks for another great post, Lynn!
Happy Netweaving!
Carol
Hi Lynne,
I love Twitter. It is a huge distraction, and I spend many hours just reading tweets from others I have no interest in, but I admit I'm addicted.
That said, I've made more friends, and business connections in a short few months than years of blogging has brought me.
I Twitter personal and professional and business tweets. I like the mix of letting people know about the raccoons in my house or the bear in my yard or the newest tips I've discovered.
Twitter? Im IN!
@DivinePurposeMV
Lynn,
The funniest example of this is in a little video entitled:
"Twitter Frustrates Hitler As Followers Split"
It shows the frustration of Hitler as he tries to get "followers" on Twitter, yet can only get THREE!
Here are some of the recent comments:
I haven't laughed like this in a loooong time. Thank you for the video. It's funnier than funny! --Ben
That is brilliant. Not to mention so funny I nearly choked on my drink while watching it. --Tom
Hilarious & genius!!!! --Bob
This is hilarious...really clever. Thank you, we need humor in our lives. --Marlene
It's on YouTube or at my blog:
http://danhollings.posterous.com/twitter-frustrates-hitler-as-f
Hey, that story sounds familar! Glad to help. π
My main concern with Twitter was the time suck factor. I first heard of Twitter last year from Leo Laporte's TWIT podcast but I also didn't get it at first.
It was Lynn who showed me the Twitter light. π And I'm glad she did. It's a great tool for networking. I've met new contacts right on twitter. Where else can I contact big names and they actually twit back!
And yes it can be just for fun. The way it comes off from Ken is if he can't make a buck off of it he's not interested. You can have both ways with twitter.
Now if Twitter could figure out how to handle it popularity so I don't have to see that stupid fail whale again! π
Very funny Dan - great viral promo!
Lael - you can use the Twitter search feature to find conversations on those topics, and then get involved - follow some of the movers & shakers, or gain exposure through joining discussions.
There is so much potential with Twitter!
No doubt on that fail whale, Alan - π
You're right though that Twitter is one of the only places (currently) that you can easily contact pretty much anyone - regardless of their "status". It used to be difficult (if not impossible) for the "little guy" to reach the "big guys". Twitter bridged that gap...
Great Twitter story to share from today...
One of my friends on Twitter noticed that someone is copying my content. Sent me the link to the offending blog, the link to their host & registrar, and this link to stock DMCA letters: http://www.plagiarismtoday.com/stock-letters/
Talk about a helping hand & a major time saver! Twitter continues to be incredibly resourceful...
@Carol - I just took a look at your Twitter profile and noticed you have over 1200 followers already. A testament to your networking ability, no doubt! Congrats π
I love your networking tips. Only suggestion is to add more to your Bio about what you can do for people. And more of those great networking tips, of course!
Thanks a million, Patrick! π
I have done a complete overhaul of my blog and I included twitter when I did so. I don't have a large following but I find that when I send a tweet, people follow it to my blog.
In addition, I love the simplicity of it.
Hi Lynn,
Thanks for your input. I have already done some searches already, but wanted to include an invite here too.
Best wishes,
Lael Johnson
@coach_gold
Why are we having this conversation here, instead of on Twitter?
I am still learning how to use it. But already see the potential of tweet.
Bunch of "twits" π
I think it IS useful if used in the right way.
I admit at first I was just as lost as most people but in reality once you DO "get it" the potential seems clear.
A great way to announce updates etc in real time, and for time sensitive moments it could be a great asset.
Twitters could be the first to find out new information.
I doubt twitter will go anywhere anytime soon. π
Rob @robsellen if you twits want to follow another twit. π
Hi Lynn,
I am definitely in. I find it hard to hard to 'keep up to date' but using twitter at least gives me a feeling of connection.
I run free 'How To' Seminars every fortnight and without fail, I will have 2 or 3 signups because of my 'tweets' and follow up by those who can't make the free session asking for the recording. I have definitely grown my subscriber as a result.
I have also been able to schedule 1:1 coaching sessions with clients through the dm function and been able to promote my services indirectly by being involved in discussions that would have completely passed me by.
I work on my own at home, and sometimes desperately miss the 'Adult Interactions', the dogs just don't give me enough of a discussion! Twitter allows me to communicate at all hours of the day!
Go Twitter! http://twitter.com/charlyjl