Tweet-ups: A worthwhile way to find new followers

A tweet-up can, on paper, be a nerve-racking affair. It’s exactly what it says on the tin – a meeting of tweeters – and as such can often result in a roomful of strangers awkwardly making small talk if they’re not approached with the right attitude.

What is the right attitude? Well, that would depend on whether you attend in a personal or business capacity. Personal tweet-ups often revolve around a joint interest, whether that be sport, music or something similar. However, business tweet-ups allow the opportunity to make your company and sector the centre of attention – and can subsequently provide unique networking opportunities.

Business tweet-ups are a regular occurrence in cities around the UK, and come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. Some are lunches, some evening meals, and some are just a natter in a local pub. There are some things to bear in mind should you pop your head in at one in the future:

1. These events usually occur during the week. Let this serve as a clue for how you should behave. It isn’t a great idea to drink to excess on a Tuesday night while representing your company, doubly so if you have work in the morning.
2. Don’t be shy. If you don’t know anyone there, be confident and introduce yourself to someone. There will always be people in the same boat as you, so don’t be afraid to say hello.
3. Listen to people, even if they are not directly related to your business. At a tweet-up, you’re representing your company, and personal interactions are often projected onto the business itself. Don’t allow your firm to be seen as rude or ignorant.
4. Spread the word about your Twitter account. Usually, there will be a hash tag set up for the event, so use it to let people know you’re around. Monitor it when you have a spare moment or two (be very careful not to get lost in your phone though!) and reply to any conversations on there.
5. Announce your company’s Twitter name in a clear and concise manner. Say hello to somebody, shake their hand, and say words to the effect of “Sorry, what was your Twitter handle again?” They’ll normally ask the same. Follow them from the account, and they will usually follow you back.

Tweet-ups can be daunting experiences, but they can really help businesses find new clients or establish new partnerships. That’s why it’s important to network and try to speak to as many people as possible. Think of yourself as a walking advertisement for your company; the more people who see you, the more people are likely to invest.

PushON http://www.pushon.co.uk

@old_mick

Michael Thornton is an SEO copy and Social Media Specialist currently working at PushON in Manchester.

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