Ode to Twitter…

People still say to me that they think that Twitter is a waste of time.  And I tell them that I know Twitter is  perfect for business.

Why?

It enables businesses to have conversations with their consumers in real time and allows for quality  “customer service.”

Major corporations use Twitter to learn about the needs and wants of their customers. Active Twitter players include @JetBlue, @DunkinDonuts and @Kodak. And if you want to watch corporations that do it right, follow these three.

It also enables retail stores and small businesses an opportunity for cost effective promotions.  Just take a look at Black Friday.  @BestBuy used social media and specifically Twitter to get the word out about sales and special promotions on that day.

Non-profits use Twitter for awareness of their cause, fund raising and recruitment of members and volunteers.

Many businesses also use Twitter for market research and to see trends.  Individuals use it to share information with others, to communicate and to get their news.

Who learned about Michael Jackson‘s death first?  People who conversed on Twitter!

Remember the plane that crashed in the Hudson River?  It was found out from a tweet from a bystander who saw the accident.  Or what about when Lance Armstrong lost his bicycle?  He tweeted it out and within an hour got his bicycle returned.

Twitter is a powerful tool and when used right, can really help your business grow.

Do you have a twitter story to share? I would love to hear it….