How to hashtag for Twitter success

Imagine if, with the stroke of a key, you could land your brand in front of hundreds of people in your target audience.

I’m not talking about “Harry Potter” magic here (although I will gladly talk Harry with anyone who asks). I’m talking about hashtags. When it comes to Twitter, these characters are small but mighty, and can help your brand achieve its social media goals. Here’s how you go about it:

1. Participate in events. Research the types of events your target audience attends and incorporate those event hashtags into your social media editorial calendar. Does your brand target fitness enthusiasts? Find popular races and tweet tips or good luck messages with the event hashtag.

2. Engage with your target tweeters. Set up streams in your social media management dashboards to monitor hashtags relevant to your brand. Monitor regularly, and, if you see a tweet your brand could naturally respond to, do it. But don’t overdo it. Only respond when you can truly be helpful. For example, if you’re an air conditioning company, monitor “#humid.” If someone complains about the hot, #humid air disrupting their sleep, jump in and offer tips on best sleeping temperatures, followed by a solution (perhaps your services).