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The world just got smaller (again!)
The world just got smaller (again!)
July 02, 2009
When I tell people I blog, I use Twitter and actively work on growing my online network they usually respond in one of two ways. The first is that they launch into a conversation with me about the social media revolution we're experiencing - usually ending with useful URLs being swapped - and a post-conversation tweet or two. The second reaction, and one usually reserved for the - well let's just say more mature generation - is that of shock and fear of things world-wide-webish.
Before the boom of social media started in late 2005, people held a much more reserved approach to where and how their name, picture, and email could be used online. As time went on and online networks grew out of sight, people (en masse) became a lot more likely to share their details to others online.
Nowadays, to not have your foot in a major online network is madness – the effect it can have on your business is phenomenal.
If you want to get involved in at least one network, choose Twitter. Get yourself an account, link to your website, do some tweets and experience the benefits of what it can bring. Mark Shaw has recently recorded his Twitter for Business TV series, a collection of the best twitter tips - just perfect for those starting out. If you haven’t already seen them or read his blogs, you should.
I'd also highly recomend his free ebook which you can download directly from his blog.
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Comments
Great introduction to why businesses should tweet. I've made wonderful connections and had some great business come through it.
I'd also second Mark Shaw's blog - great guy with some awesome insight.
Sonja - great comments, and good practical advice for those not familiar with how this all works. Thank you!
James - don't bother going home to tell them. Just send them a direct message.
I agree: Twitter can bring genuine benefit to small businesses.
If, like many small ventures, your business relies on word-of-mouth referrals for most sales, why not extend the number of people talking about you?
The current downturn means that, for many companies, their current network is not delivering the return it used to in terms of new leads.
Participation in communities like Twitter and LinkedIn can help you here - use them well and they'll extend your network, helping to drive referrals and bring in business.
For those who are not familiar with Twitter there is a fear of the unknown and in time, there is a possibility it will go the way of Facebook in the media, with the Daily Mail labelling Facebook as a place for morally bankrupt teens to hang out and organise house parties.
There is no shame in using Twitter. I am going home this weekend to tell my parents...that I...Tweet.
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