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What does it take to gain “Tweet Cred” on Twitter? Like its cousin “street cred”, Tweet Cred has to do with knowledge of how to interact in a certain environment and to hold authenticity. And yes, to be cool, but don’t worry if that thought pressures you. I’ve got 3 tips in this post that will get you to cool and credible easily.
When I talk about Tweet Cred, I’m not suggesting you conform to something that doesn’t feel right, but to get along in a tribal way.You get to be yourself AND be a vital contributor to the whole village. That’s how you gain RESPECT, the prime directive of both street cred and Tweet cred.
I watch EVERYONE on Twitter, partly because I’m a big people watcher, but also to spot who’s doing it well and who isn’t. These observations help me in my work when I consult with business owners and experts on using Web 2.0 for marketing.
I note who I naturally gravitate towards and who is boring and predictable. There are times when I feel a cringe of embarrassment for people I know who just don’t get it.
So for the sake of all that is good and holy on Twitter, I’m sharing 3 of my top tips to gain Tweet Cred.
1. Focus on relationship building
Yes, I sound like Horton hears a Who’s on this one, but I’ll keep saying it til people really get it: relationship building is where the money starts.
Like all social networking sites, Twitter is based on relationships. Responding back to others, retweeting another person’s info, or providing great info all facilitate relationships. Through these relationships, you’ll support the whole reason you’re using social networking: observers turn into followers, followers turn into fans, fans turn into leads, and leads turn into sales.
2. Quit the Preaching, Start the Tweeting
Lots of folks don’t feel comfortable sharing about their present moment. They want the world to see them as steely Alexis Colby, not wispy weak Crystal Carrington.
Rather than Tweet about a computer malfunction, or how an avocado sandwich would really hit the spot right now, they create Tweets that sound like they’re speaking from a podium. “I’m preparing to turn 4 average entrepreneurs into gazillionaires, here’s how you can become one too!” just doesn’t ring with authenticity. There’s a pitch to it and worse yet, a resistance to being authentic and in the moment.
You don’t have to be perfect to attract leads and new opportunities. Tweeting about the commonalities of life offers followers easy touchpoints to connect with you. Sending out preachy Tweets only puts a barrier between you and your prospective leads. Take off the 80′s shoulder pads and replace them with a heart to heart connection with your audience.
3. Pitch Hay, Not Your Followers
If you set up an automated reply to greet new followers, leave off the links to your site or special opt in page or FABULOUS opportunity. That’s getting about as appealing and original as a dinner hour telemarketer.
You want to approach these relationships with open hands and a closed mouth. Learn about your Tweeps first, then let that listening clue you in on the way you could approach that person for business.
So how do you keep up YOUR Tweet Cred? Drop your comments here and be sure to share this post with your followers on Twitter.
About Nancy Marmolejo
