The challenge? Being pithy (and helpful) in 140 characters or less.
The players? You and your Twitter followers.
The scene? Pick one.
But you opt for: “Congrats on the photo-video exhibit in May @xxx !”
Why? Unless your followers are also following @xxx at the right time, they will have no idea why you’re sending your congratulations. Acknowledge the accomplishment by naming it.
But you opt for: “Artists: Learn how to improve your tweets on the Art Biz Blog http://…”
Why? “New blog post” doesn’t tell me anything! There’s a bazillion blogs out there. Why should I stop everything to read YOUR blog post? What will it do for me?
But you opt for: “Artists who want tips for their statements should read this from @xxx http://…”
Why? “Great advice” might not be advice I’m needing or wanting at the moment. And the link could go anywhere–especially if you’re using a link-shortening service like tinyurl.com and the true URL is hidden. Tell me what I’m going to get if you want me to click on it. Also, if the author of the post you’re linking to is on Twitter, be sure to give them a Twitter plug by adding their @name.
But you opt for: “Cute kitten alert! This video will make you laugh out loud http://…”
Why? See reasoning under scene 3. In the tempting tweet, I have no idea what the video is about or why I’d want to click on it. Give me something to cling to–something to entice me.
5 thoughts on “Tweet Makeovers”
More makeovers for ya:
Artists: Learn how to improve your tweets on the Art Biz Blog http://…
Becomes:
Artists: how to improve your tweets: Art Biz Blog http://
My top tip is to not use 140 characters. Aim for 130 max. Why? Because then other people have room to “retweet: ” you! (which takes 9 characters, only 4 if they know to use “RT: “) Hoorah! The more room you give them the better, gives them space to add a comment or info relevent to their followers. A bit of comment lets them tell *their* followers why they value your tweet. (rather lame) Example:
I always follow Alyson’s advice! Retweet: @abstanfield Artists: how to improve your tweets: Art Biz Blog http://…
Excellent advice that applies to Facebook, too!
Tina: BUSTED! Great job! And I’m sorry I didn’t know your comment was waiting on my approval. Actually, I try to do even fewer than 130 characters. My @name is 11 characters. I try to go under 120 when possible.
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Alyson, Good advise that I have recently started following. Thanks