If you’re already on Twitter, you’ve probably noticed it seems to have a slightly different function than other social media sites. Twitter is a great place to connect with others, keep up with business trends and to follow vendors and industry leaders versus Facebook, which tends to be more personal. People who actively use Twitter are more influential online users, with 72% writing blog posts at least once a month, 70% commenting on blog posts and 56% writing articles for third part sites.

As you can see, Twitter users tend to be industry leaders, innovators, early adopters and movers and shakers, the exact type of people you want getting behind your product and spreading the word. Twitter is a unique communication channel and we’ve compiled a list of tips on growing your influence.

Ways you can grow your Twitter:

• Follow industry leaders, brands and other businesses who inspire you. Occasionally retweet one of their posts if it’s something you feel your followers would be interested in or if it connects with you/your business.
• If someone you follow posts a question or comment, respond timely and in a positive manner. Doing this can often lead to a connection or build comradery!
• Post interesting content, like quotes, photos and links to your blog. Be sure to shorten the URLs.
• Using hashtags can direct people searching on Twitter for a certain subject to your tweets. For example, we often use #ecommerce or #entrepreneur because those fit with our message. Don’t use hashtags too much in your message—no more than three max per tweet.
• Consistently post three times a day or more on Twitter to see growth. If others see your Twitter account isn’t active, they may be tempted to “unfollow” your account.
• Don’t “buy” Twitter followers.
• Remember, followers don’t just want an update on your newest product. They want to join the conversation so be sure to make that a priority.
• Add your Twitter and other social media site links to your homepage and business cards. This is a great way to encourage website hits and boost sales.
• If you have an online store, make sure your products have a Twitter button to encourage customers to share a product!

Do you have a Twitter account for your business? What’s your approach to social media?

*Stats from Exact Target.