To Tweet or Not To Tweet

I don't often frequent the Etsy forums, but last week I felt compelled to put my two cents in on a topic that seems to come up quite a bit: Is Twitter Worth It?
I thought I'd share my forum post here for those readers who are also small business owners, crafters, and artists trying to decide which social networking tools are right for them.

Many of the best things that have happened with our small business came about through Twitter. I think a common misconception is that if you don't get sales directly through a social networking venue, it's not worth it.

Like Minds
Twitter is a way of networking with other people who own small businesses, share similar interests, write craft blogs, and might think what YOU do is totally awesome. Engage with others in conversations about your common interests and further down the line they might write a blog post about you, mention your shop to friends, or purchase something directly. This comes from knowing a little bit about you - which is why we engage in the handmade community in the first place, right?

Share, Don't Spam
Twitter is also a great way to keep customers in the loop about new postings, shop news, sales and other promotions. However, if you only use Twitter to post this information it may come across as slightly spam-ish. I think the same can be said about Facebook and other social networking sites. Some of the best marketing comes through creating relationships, not just getting your products out there.

To get started with Twitter you can find a tutorial here, and you can follow us @beanhandmade.

BOL!
And lastly - while I love reading tweets from those who post from their pet's point of view, I just can't bring myself to do it. I don't presume to know what Bean is thinking. I also don't really understand why dogs have such poor grammar when they tweet. Bean would have impeccable diction.

Already tweeting? Please feel free to leave your username below and we'll follow you!

*Post title comes from Etsy user DedeLeupold in Etsy Forums.