Twitter.

So how can I start ‘tweeting’?

Made popular by mainstream celebs like Ashton Kutcher and long-timers like Jimmy Fallon, Twitter is a new type of social networking platform that allows you to share updates with friends and strangers 160 characters at a time.

It’s simple. Visit Twitter.com, sign-up with your name and email address, set your password and add a photo. Then, enter your message and let the conversations roll!

But what does this have to do with my brand’s identity?

It’s probably obvious why this one-to-many platform is useful to celebrity branding and ego-touting teens, but how does a network like Twitter fit into your online business strategy?

It’s simple. Where the true value of Twitter is unparalleled is through the data you can gather from people’s “Tweets.” Using Twitter’s own search page, third party websites or dedicated Twitter apps, you can enter your search terms and find out what real people are saying about your brand in real-time.

Give it a try by entering your brand or company name into Twitter’s search page. Do you see people with happy thoughts? Do you see negative bashing of your brand name? What do people like or dislike about your company or brand? What can you now do to improve your company image online and off? I think you see the value.

Integrating Twitter into your daily work-flow

Once you journey through the murky waters by analyzing the data provided by Twitter (and possibly attempting to make amends with unkempt consumers), consider installing a dedicated Twitter app like TweetDeck on your computer.

With Tweet Deck, you can enter up to 10 search terms and receive instant notification whenever those terms appear on the Twitter network. This way, you can keep up with your brand’s image, and the image of your competitors, both positive and negative.

When you see an unhappy customer, try your best to make the situation right. If you see a happy customer who is spreading the word about your brand, interact with them and show them some encouragement.

Conclusion

Take seriously what your customers are saying about you online, because there is no more effective marketing campaign than constructive word-of-mouth.

So, what do you use Twitter for? Connect with us on Twitter or leave a reply below.