Branding Conundrum

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Permalink Reply by Nikki Tate-Stratton on October 9, 2009 at 12:43pm

I have the same problem. I try to be as clear as possible with my tweets so it makes it easier for followers to filter which stuff they actually want to read. Multiple accounts would probably be better, but I'm already juggling too many different blogs, websites, etc.

I have yet to find a good all-in-one management tool for everything, though I have the sense that the next generation of web tools will perhaps address some of these challenges...

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Permalink Reply by Marilyn Harding on October 9, 2009 at 1:00pm

Thanks Nikki. I like the idea of transparency and building relationship but some industries just don't mix. It's kind of the same reticence I have with Facebook. Before I knew it I had my first boyfriend, my business bank manager and a photo of my niece's husband in the tub with their infant son strategically covering his parts! As a professional it somehow didn't all hang together for me!

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Permalink Reply by Ronnie Ledesma on November 3, 2009 at 8:54pm

Marilyn, Nikki, I feel your pain (and thanks for the chuckle on the tub with infant picture).

You need two Twitter accounts:
1. Use a personal account for general conversation and connecting with a diverse group of people.
2. Use an account for your business and offer content and conversation specific to that topic.

I'm laughing because I said "need." : )

Here's how to deal with providing content to multiple Twitter accounts: Use one of many fantastic web-based or desktop tools. Here are a few popular, effective tools:

1. Hootsuite: Web-based Twitter management client allows you to tweet to multiple accounts. Type your post, select the accounts you want it to go to, and voila! It's my fav.

2. Seesmic or Tweetdeck: Download and use to manage multiple accounts and Facebook posts! I use both b/c I like to stay current with new developments. Seesmic also has a web-based version, however currently it has less features than the desktop version and Hootsuite.

3. Ping.fm: For posting to a plethora of social networks, check out Ping.fm. Just an extra tip, in case you're interested.

Hello Facebook Privacy!
Use Facebook's friend list feature and privacy settings to control who can see what. First create a friend list, say "Clients" or "Business Friends", then use the privacy settings to prevent them from seeing photos.

On another note, think about starting a Facebook Page for your business and directing clients there instead of "friend-ing" them. If a client does send you a friend request, then decide if you want to accept it or not. If you do (and I would), then put them in your client list.

It's a simple, inoffensive way to separate your personal friends and business friends and still enjoy your social networking experience.

Ok, so I've told you what to do but not exactly how to do it. Add me as a friend, I'll accept it, then send me a note and we can set up some time to walk you through the process (no charge). Just let me know where you'd like to start.

Also, I hope you're following me on Twitter and have connected with me on Facebook. If not, let's! : )

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