When it comes to Social Media, no one “gets it” quite like Twitter. According to Econsultancy, as of January 2010, Twitter has 75 million user accounts. Twitter makes it easy for businesses and entrepreneurs to stay in touch with those who choose to follow them, and stay updated on new products, services, special offers, industry news and more. It’s a win-win for both the Tweeter and their followers.

When it comes to Twitter, there is a right way and a wrong way to use the platform. Your messages (or Tweets) must be kept short – under 140 characters – and they need to be helpful or informative. Don’t Tweet about what you ate for breakfast or the fact that you just brushed your teeth; people will begin to unfollow you.

Merle, author of the site MerlesWorld.com, has put together a list of the top 10 tips for Twitter Users.

1. Regular Postings: You need to post to your Twitter account on a regular basis. Be a contributor that your followers get to really know and look forward to your Tweets.
2. Retweet: If you see Tweets posted by others that you think your followers would like, then retweet them. It takes just one click and you’ll be creating goodwill with other Twitter users at the same time.
3. Be Helpful: Keep in mind that Twitter is a form of Social Media, so social interaction is key. It is not all about you. Whenever a chance arises to answer a question, participate in a survey, or help solve a problem, do so. In this way you’re participating in the community. This also will help your brand and image when others know they can count on you for support or feedback.
4. Don’t Be a Follow Copycat: Don’t follow everybody who follows you. Be selective in who you follow or your Twitter stream could quickly fill up with junk or spam.
5. What to Tweet: Make sure that the Tweets you post are helpful and/or informative. Late breaking news pertaining to your industry, as well as any specials or sales you may have going on are always good topics. If you find something you think your followers would like, especially if it’s free or a bargain, share the love. Plus, if your Tweets are good, it will encourage others to retweet them.
6. Comment: Participate in the community by commenting on other people’s Tweets. If you can answer a question, do so. It doesn’t hurt and people really will appreciate it when you take the time to comment on what they have to say.
7. Say Thank You: When someone takes the time to retweet your Tweets, make sure to reply to them with a “thank you”. Manners rule online as well as off, and they’ll like the fact that you noticed the retweet and took the time to show some gratitude. It may even inspire them to retweet more of your tweets in the future.
8. Be Personal: Every now and then you should show your human side with a creative thought, quote or other statement. Let people know you’re “real” and not just a lean, mean business machine. You want to tread lightly in this area. Too personal is overkill, but a little can help in establishing a connection with your followers.
9. Post Pictures/Video: Twitter is not just for text. It’s easy to post short videos and photos. It’s nice to mix it up a little and share content in other formats.
10. Talk About More Than Yourself: It’s not all about you, so please don’t make all your tweets one big marketing message, such as only tweeting about your latest press release, blog posting, or article that was published. No one will want to follow you if you’re one big commercial. Yes, some of this is fine in moderation, but you need to walk a fine line and mix it up with other helpful, interesting topics.

Social Media is all about participating and listening to what others have to say. It’s all about creating and sharing information and becoming part of the community. If you approach Twitter in this fashion, you’ll not only have a lot more fun, but your followers will like and respect you – and if that doesn’t strengthen your brand, nothing will.