How to Connect with Brands on Twitter

No matter how well crafted your pitch is, it will get nowhere if you send it to the wrong person. Learn how to connect with brands on Twitter. 

One of the big “debates” among bloggers in the creative lifestyle niche is wether or not maintaining a Twitter presence is necessary. Despite the changes to Twitter’s relevance in the blogosphere, I maintain that Twitter remains an important tool in any blogger’s arsenal.

My first successful brand pitch started with a conversation on Twitter. After following a brand for a bit and engaging in some successful back and forth I asked, “Hi, just curious, do you guys work with bloggers?” In hindsight, the question was somewhat blunt, but honestly I figured I had nothing to lose.

To my surprise, the individual managing the brand’s Twitter account said that they do and quickly passed the proper email address along to me via DM. Email pitches led to further conversations that resulted in some social media content creation and a sponsorship at my event, Snap Conference. To this day, many of my cold pitches start with a single tweet.

How to Connect with Brands on Twitter

Complete Your Twitter Profile

• Claim your full name or blog name, so that it’s easily tied to your other social media
• Use a clear, current photo
• Craft a bio that covers what defines you, your expertise, what you’re passionate about
• Link to a more complete bio, like your about page

Follow the Brand on Twitter
It might seem like a no-brainer, but connect with your favorite brands on Twitter by following them. Not only is it a way to express your interest in the company, but could also pave the way for future private communication.

Strike Up a Conversation
Looking to get noticed? Don’t just ask, ask, ask. Conversation requires a little give and take. Retweet relevant content and share with your readers. Share related content with the brand, including your own relevant posts.

Introduce Yourself to Brand
Once you’ve engaged in dialogue with the brand. Take the next step and introduce yourself as a blogger or influencer. Consider sending a tweet letting them know you’d like to collaborate.

“Love @RYOBIpowertools use them all the time.  Would love to connect with you offline!”

You can also ask for a contact name and email.  You may not always get a name, but most brands will respond with an email address you can contact.

Create Twitter Lists
Create lists of brands you’d like to work with and add them to a Twitter list. Not only does it make it easier to follow and interact with particular brands, there’s a good chance a brand will see that they’ve made your list of favorites.

Lists can also serve as a branding opportunity, providing additional information on the type of blogger you are and/or want to be.

Looking for great lists to follow? Check out my lists of past and present Snap Conference sponsors on Twitter.

Keep Your Feed Professional
It really should go without saying, but your feed should be an extension of your brand. Steer clear of catty comments, inappropriate content or swearing (unless you’re a biker chick, then do all of that). You’re running a business.

How have you tried to connect with brands on Twitter? 

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Tauni

Tauni is a former public relations executive who spent 12+ years handling communications and events for an array of clients, from the NBA and Olympics to numerous high ranking politicians. Today, she handles social media for a local agency and hosts Snap, an annual social media conference for bloggers focused on entertaining, craft and home DIY.

@taunieverett

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