With the many benefits of Twitter, it’s no wonder so many people are using it as part of their personal branding strategy. Not only can you market yourself and your expertise, but also you can connect with others you may have never had an opportunity to meet to in real life.
Although you probably already have an account, are you considered a “power user?”
And, how do you do this?
Share relevant information
You should already have a good grasp on your personal brand before you try to become a power user on Twitter. This means your complete bio and profile information should be filled out with your full name, website and experience/interests/expertise in your bio. When it comes to tweeting, the best advice to grow your following is to give, give, give to your followers. Share articles, advice, and information of value to your audience and you will reap the benefits from helping others.
Be yourself
Twitter is great for business and professional purposes – but it’s also known for being a relaxed, social atmosphere. Share some personal aspects of your life. Engage in conversation with others about your interests. Ask questions you may have that others can help you with. Talk about a funny thing that happened to you during your day – overall, come off as a real person!
Grow your network
Use sites such as TweepML.org to find lists of people who you’d like to get to know or follow. Check out who your followers suggest on Follow Fridays (#ff). Look at your friend’s lists of users to find new people to connect with. Search for keywords related to your expertise or interests. Find Twitter chats that you can engage in and share your expertise with those people.
Participate
Contribute to the community of Twitter by participating in Twitter chats, answering questions and taking polls, and creating your own content. Retweet other’s links and advice that are relevant to your followers. Start a hashtag or a Twitter chat if you have something that’s not being covered currently. Use Twitter to promote others’ blogs or content just as much (if not more) than your own.
