I’ve been asked by clients and friends this question: Does Twitter work? I guess that depends. What the heck are you expecting it to do?
The problem with Twitter (and all social media) is that people are hoping that it’s the solution to their business/marketing woes. But it can’t be. You can’t stop all of your networking and traditional PR and marketing efforts just because you have a Twitter account. Twitter is a great way to “meet” people. It’s a good way to learn and to share information. But it’s not a sales generator. It’s a tool — just like everything else. And as a single component of a larger strategy, it works.
Now, for the record, I have been introduced to a new client through Twitter. And I’m grateful for that, but Twitter isn’t a sales tool. Ultimately, it’s about building a community and talking to people. Connection. Engagement. These are the things that you should think of when you think of Twitter. Not sales and dollar signs.
So, does it work? You bet — but only if you’re using it in the way it was intended.