First of all, what is microblogging?
About.com defines it as follows:
Microblogging refers to the posting of very short updates about oneself. It is in contrast to long-form blogging, where there are usually at least a few hundred words. Instead of posting a message on their regular blog, people who microblog use Web services designed to make microblogging very easy.
Webopedia.com is being a bit more specific:
Microblog — a type of blog that lets users publish short text updates. Bloggers can usually use a number of service for the updates including instant messaging, e-mail, or Twitter. The posts are called microposts, while the act of using these services to update your blog is called microblogging. Social networking sites, like Facebook, also use a microblogging feature in profiles. On Facebook this is called “Status Updates”.
So, is microblogging really worth it for affiliate program managers (and/or other types of online marketers)?
I haven’t been using Twitter for too long (less than half a year of active use), but I am already seeing great benefits. With the help of my more personal @eprussakov account I have a capability of (i) staying on top of the most current news in the industries that interest me, (ii) connecting with other online marketers (some of the connections I’ve made are quite amazing), and (iii) sharing what’s important to me with those who decided to follow microposts about me, my life, and my professional interests.
Additionally, I also have an @AMNavigator Twitter account that I use to “tweet about the latest and the coolest stuff about the affiliate programs we manage.” I started this separate account just 36 days ago — see my blog post and video about it — and that account already has over 150 followers, and microblogging through it is already yielding fruit. I’ve been able to make connections with some of the coupon affiliates that I haven’t known about before starting the separate account for AM Navigator. Twitter is being actively used by couponers, and other types of affiliates are also starting to use it more frequently. If you have an affiliate program, a product, or a brand to promote, the question posed in the title of this post should not even be a question! Definitely microblog!!
Just as it is with anything new and exciting, it is certainly easy to get swamped in microblogging. It is fun, and it’s addictive. So, as with everything, remember to prioritize, and you’ll do well.
Great example right here of the benefit of microblogging: I came to this post on your blog because you posted about it on your Twitter account. I just happened to be checking my Twitter page — which I really don’t do often — and your blog title caught my eye. I clicked on the tinyurl in your Tweet, and here I am.
Microblogging seems to have at least THAT much value, eh?
Good example, Gary. Thank you.
Interestingly enough, USA Today has posted a different opinion on exactly the same topic today. See the “Ask an Expert: Should entrepreneurs Twitter? Uh, No…” article.
What do other people think?
I believe each communication channel can be of added value to your business. It depends all on the goals you set.
If you sell online, twitter, can be a good channel where consumers can filter the communication which they want to receive. I believe Steve Strauss is missing the point that there is a whole generation coming which is used to send short and to the point message and are masters in filtering the information overload we “elder” 😉 experience….
Most important think before you use, set succes goals and go on and use it….
“Ask an Expert” – hmmm… and expert in what exactly? I’m sure this guy is knowledgeable to a certain facet of business, but should someone who admits he “missed the boat” on the whole blogging “fad” really be commenting on what’s relevant in online marketing.
It amazes me how many people have missed the point with Twitter… the media loves to focus on the inane, acting like all Twitter is is a place for today’s narcissistic youth to promote there every action to the world… but that’s just not what it is.
Twitter is viral idea distribution at its most raw and unhindered form. While some businesses may get more value out of the service than others, I suggest that most businesses could find some use for a service that allows such rapid communication and flow of information. It just takes some vision and creativity combined with a willingness to try new things – something that I feel Steve Strauss may be lacking a little bit.
Great post Geno, always a pleasure.
I have seen many instances of the use (and abuse) of Twitter’s platform in the the form irrelevant tweets, incomplete information and blatant “spammy” types of messages.
Fortunately they are pretty easy to spot and to unfollow is just a click away.
My hat is off to those who are using it responsibly and effectively.
I cannot wait to see what the next generation will bring.
Ralph, Chris, thank you for your comments. Did you see Strauss’ follow-up article “Twitter for small business … reconsidered” published a week after the above-quoted one? In it he acknowledges that he is “no Twitter expert” and talks about the things he believes he was right (and wrong) with.
Ron, thanks for your today’s comment. It seems that every communication channel (be it snail mail, e-mail, Skype, Twitter, etc) is vulnerable to such abuse. The power that marketers have and using it responsibility is a topic in itself.