One of the best sources to keep on top of trends is Twitter. 

I’ve talked to a lot of people and businesses who don’t understand the value of Twitter. Why would any one want to put random information out into the “ether”? How can anyone communicate in 140 characters? 

Sure, some people post things like “I’m having my morning coffee”, but I have used Twitter to connect and learn from  people and businesses that have turned strangers into alliances. I have “tweeted” to send out kudos, tips, and information. I have used it to educate others and most importantly, I’ve learned a lot from other people.

I often follow people on Twitter that I think have something really interesting to say. I let other people know about them by recommending them to others.

Following certain popular trends (found down the right hand column of the Twitter page), I have learned about things before the mainstream media has even released information. 

Did you know that when the plane landed in the Hudson River, people were uploading images and tweets even before the media had arrived? Twitter is instant communication and it’s viral. 

Regular people now have a voice. We can crowdsource (problem-solve as a group), we can voice our concerns directly to companies and we can connect (virtually) to make a difference.

If you own a business, I would recommend you begin to follow and connect with like-minded businesses. I encourage you to create strategic relationships. And even more importantly, connect with your clients. Find out what they like, and what they don’t like. Listen to their feedback and engage in a dialogue with them. Let them know they are important to you and your business.

If you can, create brand ambassadors. Reward  people who love your products and want to share it with the world. Give them special treatment such as previews and exclusive offers.  

Social Media is “word-of-mouth” on steroids. If you keep people happy or if you tick them off, they *will* talk about it.

What kind of messages do YOU want said about your business?

About Leslie Hughes

Leslie Hughes is a LinkedIn Optimization Specialist, LinkedIn Top Voice, and Corporate Trainer with over 25 years of experience in digital marketing and LinkedIn profile writing. As the Principal of PUNCH!media and author of "CREATE. CONNECT. CONVERT," Leslie helps executives and professionals optimize their LinkedIn profiles, generate leads, and attract higher-paying clients. Recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice—an exclusive honor from LinkedIn—Leslie is a trusted authority on LinkedIn profile optimization, AI-driven marketing strategies, and digital identity management. Her expertise has been featured on CBC Radio, where she was called a "Social Media Guru," and on CTV’s "The Social," where she shared strategies for managing digital identity. Leslie empowers professionals to leverage generative AI tools like ChatGPT to enhance marketing strategies, boost efficiency, and create impactful content that converts. She helps businesses understand how to use LinkedIn for lead generation and how AI can revolutionize their digital marketing efforts. Leslie has worked with top organizations like Investment Planning Counsel, Guardian Life Insurance Company of America, JLL, and Franklin Templeton, optimizing LinkedIn profiles and providing corporate training that delivers measurable results. Leslie is a former college professor and co-lead instructor for Ontario Tech University’s Social Media Marketing and Digital Management Certificate. Whether you need a LinkedIn profile writer, corporate trainer, or AI marketing specialist, Leslie Hughes can help you elevate your digital presence and transform your marketing strategy. Ready to take your LinkedIn profile and corporate training to the next level? Learn more at www.punchmedia.ca.