Most people have heard of Twitter, but a few don’t understand it or know how they can use it. Some refer to Twitter as another social networking tool, others consider it a type of chat than can also be used as text messages, and many refer to it as a micro-blogging site. However one chooses to classify it, it may be used in a variety of ways and not all require having an account on Twitter. Four ways that Twitter may be used are for research, targeting groups of people, as a social network, or for business promotion.

1. Research

Twitter is more than a communication tool, it is a quick and easy way to find news, learn about books and articles, find topic experts, and get the latest trending topics. Without setting up an account, anyone can use Twitter like a search engine to do information research, look for open jobs, and find something on a news topic. Using Twitter as another search tool is an excellent way to learn more about it and get potentially useful information at the same time.

2. Private group or community communication

Think of Twitter as a communication tool to reach a specific audience of followers. Twitter can be used by city services after setting up an account to communicate messages quickly to their community. Another option is for clubs and associations to use it to communicate upcoming events and chapter news to members. And of course anyone can set-up an account with private Tweets so only their approved family and friends can see what they choose to communicate. Many Twitter users choose to short get updates on what is going on via Tweets so it can be very useful if properly communicated to the desired audience and set-up appropriately.

3. Public social network

Of course most people who get on Twitter do so for the same reason they might join MySpace, Facebook, LinkedIn, or another social networking site – to meet many people. Being on Twitter is a great way to get to know people from all over the world by the short communications they create. After setting up an account and following a few people, consider joining in the conversations using direct messages or with proper us e of #hash-tags that represent expert areas or trending topics. In order to be found on Twitter, setting up an account and communicating it via email and other methods should be done. However the best way to be found on Twitter is to start by following others. Most will follow back and some will recommend other accounts they find interesting. There are lots of techniques on the web for getting Twitter followers. For some options to target followers, in an internet search engine look for directories to help with following on Twitter and to get followers.

4. Business promotion

Many companies use Twitter to promote their business. Using Twitter for this purpose requires considering why the business should be on Twitter and what the desired outcomes of that account are. Think about who will be following the Twitter account and what they may want to know about. Twitter users are looking for information foremost and deals second, so businesses need to plan to give to their followers first. Twitter users also like to get to know those they follow, so personalize Twitter by sharing details about what is going on in the company or for a consultant share personal experiences. Business should also consider that they can also get information from Twitter because users not only like to get the latest information; they enjoy sharing their opinions and ideas as well. So companies should think about asking for product reviews or doing short customer surveys via Twitter or with links to the company site. After giving and getting, business can begin to promote as many Twitter users enjoy being the first to find out about new products and services a company may be offering or considering adding. To get more ideas for business promotion, search for different ways to promote a business using Twitter without seeming too pushy.

Business promotion, social network, targeted or private groups, and research are four ways that Twitter may be used. With a new understanding of the different ways Twitter may be used, check it out and then decide a preferred use.