The key to success on Twitter: follow people

This is the third post in a series on how to succeed on Twitter.

Before you create a Twitter account for your company, there’s something you need to know: you must follow people.

People use Twitter to talk

If you want to know what people are talking about, follow them. Keep an eye on what they say, and when you see something you can comment on, do so. Whether it’s answering a question, giving advice, or providing a recommendation, this is how you engage with others on Twitter.

Follow suppliers, partners, and customers

Look for suppliers, partners, employees, and customers, but also look for competitors and industry leaders. These people will be talking about what’s going on in your industry, and being a part of the conversation will increase engagement.

Follow movers and shakers

If your company services a small geographical area, look for movers and shakers on Twitter in that area, too. Engaging with them in a meaningful way could be a way to get yourself notice and perhaps receive an unsolicited endorsement or two.

Follow back

Be sure to follow back those who follow you, especially if they’re in your service area or industry. This validates their following you and lets them know you appreciate it. Back it up by engaging with them though.

If you can’t commit time and resources to engaging with people, don’t bother with Twitter. Don’t even set up an account. You need to interact with others.

There’s a reason it’s called social media.