Twitter, which can most simply be described as a mini-blog that only allows 140 characters per post, has become extremely popular over the last year or so – even as critics continue to chastise the purposefully simple tool as being nothing more than another distraction to getting things done.
Often categorized as just another social media service, it’s no surprise that a great percentage of Twitter users use the service strictly for social purposes. But micro blogging is also catching on with freelancers, businesses, and other organizations looking to improve their communication processes and attract more visitors to their web presences. So the big question remains – To Twitter, or not to Twitter?
A Few Ways Twitter Can Help…
- It’s a great way to keep customers updated on the status of a project.
- It can be used to concisely relay important updates and news regarding your organization.
- Twitter is a simple way to build business by building friendships and social contacts.
- Micro blogging is a fantastic way to say something quickly without feeling the need to write a whole book on the topic.
- Twitter can be easily used to answer frequently asked questions (FAQ’s).
- It can be viewed as a marketing tool to help build awareness of your brand or site to a growing number of followers.
- The company makes it really easy to integrate Twitter with almost any site or blog.
- The tool allows you to participate in ongoing conversation about your product or service.
When Twitter Can Become A Distraction…
- When it is used redundantly for no other purpose rather than just to “tweet.”
- If it doesn’t mesh with the style or needs of your clients or visitors.
- When too much focus is put on the tool, instead of just using it for what it is.
- If regular blogging, the phone, or email are likely a more realistic and efficient means of communication for an organization.
In the end, it’s important to realize that services like Twitter (along with other social media platforms too) can help in a number of ways when they’re used to complement or enhance other existing methods of communication. Some audiences will get it more than others – for example, tech-savvy professionals or freelancers are more likely to be receptive to services like Twitter than grandma or grandpa. Visit the Twitter website.
So it’s really up to you to decide it it’s worth trying Twitter to help your site or not. It’s probably worth a try to see if it might actually drive traffic, improve communication, or build your brand. But don’t be hesitant to bail if it looks like it’s becoming more of a distraction than a value-added service.
George Chaney
President/CEO
SEO King, Inc.
