Time Saving Twitter Tools

Twitter is one of my favorite social networking sites. I have met a lot of great people while simultaneously increasing my brand recognition. For those who still aren’t convinced that Twitter is a site they should incorporate into their marketing campaign, take a look at these figures:

I am not advocating that networking on Twitter is going to make you rich (stay far away from anyone saying it will), but in the event that someone needs a product or service, they will be more inclined to do business with companies that took the time to develop a relationship with them. Those who are against social networking typically feel this way because they believe it is too time consuming. Although I will never understand how connecting with people is a “timewaster”, those who feel it is are probably not using the right tools.  Check out the following tools:

Track your brand

Bit.ly:  By far this is one of my favorite applications. Not only can you post your information, but this site enables you to see the number of clicks, locate where the link was clicked (i.e. Twitter, Outlook, etc.) and country location. It is amazing to be able to quantify your results.

Hootsuite: This application is perfect for companies that manage multiple Twitter accounts. It has the capacity to track your tweets (I still prefer Bit.ly), but is different because it allows you the opportunity to see what is happening on Twitter. You also have the ability to  converse with people on Twitter, but you can also create groups, future date tweets, add RSS Feeds, etc.—all things that are not currently available on Bit.ly. You can also be alerted by email when a future tweet is sent (this will remind you to check for @replies to your tweet—there is nothing worse than sending information and not being there when someone has a question). In addition, if you have a Ping.fm account (this is another great application that simultaneously updates numerous social networking sites) you can update your networks via Hootsuite.

Socialoomph: Much like Hootsuite, Socialoomph  is also an all in one application and allows you to use Bit.ly to shorten your URLs. One of my favorite features is the ability to have your @replies sent to your email. If you want your replies sent by the hour, check out Tweetbeep.

Tweetdeck: This is a desktop application that enables you to never miss a tweet! It functions much like Hootsuite and Socialoomph and allows you the option to shorten your URLs with Bit.ly.  However, you are only able to simultaneously post to  Facebook and MySpace.

Check out Twitter Profiles

Twitter Search: For those who don’t want to venture outside of Twitter, use Twitter’s search function. This will allow you the ability to see what people are saying about your company right from Twitter’s website and check out hot topics.

Twitter Grader: This website allows you the opportunity to see how much of an impact your profile is on Twitter. You are able to receive tips and suggestions in how you can improve your account. Follower history is my favorite feature because it enables you to see how much your following has grown at various points in time.

Twellow: This is the YellowPages for Twitter. Twellow pulls information from Twitter and then based upon the information in your bio, places your profile in categories they deem appropriate.  You do have the ability to edit the categories or add your profile to the directory if it is not listed.  This is a fantastic way to build and connect with followers!

Tweepsearch: Allows you to connect with people based upon the keywords in their bio.

Mr. Tweet: This site enables you to not only find terrific people but also allows you the chance to recommend people that your followers should be following. This site also suggests people that you might be interested in following.

More great tools

Twitlonger: Lets face it—sometimes 140 characters is not enough, but you still want to share your thoughts on Twitter. Now this application allows you the chance to do so without sending multiple tweets.

Twitblock: I absolutely hate spammers (especially when they try to get “cute” and reply with my name). If you’re sick of being inundated with spam, I suggest you take a look at Twitblock. This tool will analyze your account and bring to your attention profiles that appear to be spam.  Obviously, you will need to make a jugdment call in determining whether the profile is a spammer. If so, you have the option to block them from this tool.

Twitpics: As the saying goes, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” Click away and share your pictures on Twitter.

Bubbletweet: This application allows you to introduce yourself or company via video.

twtQpon: This application enables you to create coupons that can be shared on other social media websites.

twtpoll: If you need to get an idea of how people feel on a certain subject, product or service quickly, check out this tool.

Networking on Twitter doesn’t have to be difficult or time consuming if you are using the right tools. New tools are being developed everyday to make our lives easier. Are you taking advantage of these tools? Do you have any other Twitter tools others should know about that are not on this list (I am sure you do!)? Don’t keep it to yourself—share!

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Related posts:

1. Increase Brand Recognition via Twitter