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Using Hashtags to Network

Definition: The # symbol, called a hashtag, is used to mark keywords or topics in a Tweet. It was created organically by Twitter users as a way to categorize messages.

So how does this relate to effective networking?  Given the fluid and often distracting nature of the Twittersphere, hashtags can help you zoom in on relevant conversations and strategic contacts.  Similar to the search for the right LinkedIn group (see last week’s post), you can decide which hashtags might be useful to your business by observing what is used by key contacts and prospects.  (The third party site hashtag.org offers an overview of popular hashtags used on Twitter.)

Or create your own hashtags to highlight events, products or technology areas.  You might even form a Twub (Twitter groups built around content aggregated from #hashtags).

How do you use hashtags?  Comment below.

Jeanne Rossomme – President, RoadMap Marketing Jeanne uses her 20 years of marketing know-how to help small business owners reach their goals. Before becoming an entrepreneur, she held a variety of marketing positions with DuPont and General Electric. Jeanne regularly hosts online webinars and workshops in both English and Spanish. www.roadmapmarketing.com | @roadmapmarketin | More from Jeanne