How to Promote Your Business Using X (Twitter)

Written by Lizzie Learn On 11th Feb 2015

X (previously Twitter) has always had a love-it-or-hate-it reputation, especially among those who preferred platforms like Facebook due to X's character limits. However, millions of people and businesses actively use X, making it a valuable tool for local businesses looking to engage with their communities.

X has evolved beyond simple microblogging, offering features that help local businesses identify and connect with customers within their geographical area. While the internet initially opened up global opportunities for businesses, local reach remains crucial. Following users outside of your business’s catchment area may dilute your engagement, filling your feed with irrelevant content. Instead, businesses should harness X’s geo-targeting capabilities to build a local audience.

Setting Up Your Business on X

1) Choosing Your X Handle

Your X handle should make it easy for users to find you. Avoid dashes, as they are cumbersome for mobile users. Ideally, use your business name, but if that’s not available, consider adding your first name to personalize your handle. For example, @JohnOvenCleaner clearly represents both your identity and service. Avoid adding your location to the handle since that will be displayed on your profile.

2) Personal and Business Branding in One Profile

For small business owners, personal branding is key. Large corporations use logos for brand consistency, but as a local business, your personal image builds trust. Use a professional headshot for your profile picture, as it will be visible across all interactions. If you don’t have a high-quality image, consider getting a professional headshot from a local photographer.

Your header image should visually represent your business. A high-quality collage of your services can be effective. There are various free and paid online collage-making tools available—simply search for one and create an eye-catching banner.

Recommended Header Image Size: 1500 x 500 pixels (subject to change; always check X’s latest guidelines).

3) Completing Your Profile

Your profile should include:

• Who you are
• What you do
• Where you operate
• How customers can contact you

Since profile descriptions have character limits, use the provided website link strategically. Instead of linking to your homepage, create a dedicated landing page for X visitors with detailed information about your business, services, and engagement policies.

Growing Your Local Following

1) Go Hyper-Local

Engage with other local businesses on X. Follow and interact with businesses in your area, and their followers may notice and follow you. This organic reach is crucial for visibility. X’s retweet function allows you to amplify local news and updates, keeping your profile active.

2) Use Local Media & News Outlets

While national newspapers provide broad coverage, local newspapers are better for geo-targeted engagement. Follow and engage with local journalists and media outlets to stay visible in your community.

3) Engage with Local Radio Stations

Think about the radio station you turn to for traffic updates and local news—find them on X and follow them. Many stations have active communities on X, and interacting with their content can increase your visibility.

Staying Updated with X’s Latest Features

Since Elon Musk’s takeover, X has introduced several new features that impact business engagement:

• X Premium & Character Limits: Standard users still have a 280-character limit per post, but Premium subscribers can now post up to 25,000 characters per tweet.
• AI Integration: X has introduced Grok AI, an AI chatbot that enhances interactions for Premium users.
• Monetization & Payments: X has announced plans for an "X Money Account", allowing real-time payments and transactions within the platform.

Best Practices for Local Businesses on X

• Keep tweets relevant to your local audience (events, promotions, news, etc.).
• Avoid the “follow-for-follow” strategy—it dilutes your local reach.
• Use trending local hashtags to increase discoverability.
• Post consistently and engage with your audience through replies and retweets.

By implementing these strategies and staying updated with X’s evolving features, you can effectively use the platform to build brand awareness, connect with local customers, and grow your business.