Eric Tippetts

10 Tips To Help You Be A Twitter Marketing Genius

You have 140 characters to get your point across.

Can you do it?

There is mixed emotions from entrepreneurs about Twitter marketing. Some have found Twitter to be a marketing extravaganza while others have all but given up with Twitter marketing and have moved their marketing strategies to other venues.

Don’t give up on Twitter marketing yet!

Here are 10 tips that can help you become a Twitter marketing genius…

#1: Be A Twitter Marketing Genius By Using Visuals

Twitter no longer takes visuals such as

  • Images
  • GIFs
  • Videos
  • Polls
  • Etc…

away from the character count. So just use your imagination. Add words within that image and you are getting much more than the character count.

Give the Twitter users a video that is exciting and markets to them.

You have many variables now that you can use visuals without losing character count in Twitter.

#2: Be A Twitter Marketing Genius By Following People Who Have Mentioned Terms Relating To Your Business

Take a look through keywords related to your business… Now take a search around Twitter finding people who have used those keywords in Tweets. If you look at their profile and see they may be a prospective customer or recruit, follow them.

In turn, they will probably follow you back and you can start to build a relationship with them.

#3: Be A Twitter Marketing Genius By Being Yourself

Don’t try to use terminology that doesn’t match you. Use your own voice. Don’t try to act like someone you are not and you will find that people will look forward to your tweets.

#4: Be A Twitter Marketing Genius By Not Tweeting Links Occasionally

The majority of marketers on Twitter are tweeting links all the time. As long as your profile has your website, you will get other Twitter users checking that profile out when they see you make some tweets without links.

Just some good advice or even a funny joke will show your followers that you are not just in it for sales.

You are a fun and lovable person too.

#5: Be A Twitter Marketing Genius By Re-Tweeting Great Stuff

The best marketers do not just share their own material, they share other tweets too. You can do this by re-Tweeting. But instead of hitting the Re-Tweet button, I suggest you copy the Tweet and paste it adding RT for re-Tweet, or if you modify it slightly, MT for modified Tweet.

By doing it this way, the user you are re-Tweeting will have an easier time favoring the Tweet and responding to it.

#6: Be A Twitter Marketing Genius By Engaging With Other Users Daily

Marketing does not just entail sharing your own stuff… You need to engage with others too!

I suggest that you make a plan on a daily basis just to review 3-5 of your Twitter followers tweets and comment, favor and show them you are seeing what they are sharing.

#7: Be A Twitter Marketing Genius By Using Hashtags Moderately

Hashtags do help engagement, but only if they are used sparingly. There are some interesting statistics:

  • Tweets with hashtags do get double the amount of engagement than those without.
  • Tweets with 1 or 2 hashtags get about 20% more engagement.
  • And tweets with more than 2 hashtags get about 17% less engagement.

So by all means, do use hashtags, but no more than 2 in a tweet. You can always re-tweet and use different hashtags.

#8: Be A Twitter Marketing Genius By Using Your Characters To Their Full Potential

No one is going to be a Grammar Guru on Twitter. If they try, they will look foolish because Twitter users understand that we must commit grammar no-nos to get the potential from the few characters.

  • Get rid of filler words like the, just, very, etc… Many of these types of words are not needed and just take character count.
  • Use abbreviations. They can help but try to keep it at no more than 3 or ur msg may b hrd 2 read.

#9: Be A Twitter Marketing Genius By Being Consistent

Consistency is an important part of all marketing strategies. Your Twitter followers are counting on you engaging and tweeting on a consistent basis.

Make a plan to be on Twitter certain days and times and follow the plan.

#10: Be A Twitter Marketing Genius By Re-Tweeting Your Material At Various Times And Days

Let’s say you just wrote an excellent blog post on using Twitter. You want everyone to see it, but 1 Tweet won’t do it.

You Tweet it on Monday at 8 AM; try re-tweeting

  • Tuesday at Noon
  • Wednesday at 2 PM
  • Thursday at 4 PM
  • and Friday at 6 PM

You will enliven the odds of getting more engagement by using this method.

Conclusion

Twitter can be a wonderful marketing resource, if it is used correctly. By using the above tips, I know you will learn to become a Twitter marketing genius.

If you have any other Twitter tips you would share with our readers, feel free to share them below. Also, if you have any questions, you can ask those here too.

One last thing… I want to give you a free training course worth $97. Get the 7 Days To Profitability course here.

I am so happy you stopped by today. Now go out and market your business… Let’s take your business

To The Top!

eric tippets

11 Search Engine Optimization Tips For Your Small Business Website

The reason for having a small business website is to be discovered. If you have a yogurt shop in Reno, Nevada, you hope that when people type yogurt in Reno, Nevada, your website will be on the first page.

Is it?

Odds are, there are probably a few yogurt shops in Reno, so the key to ensure your site is on that first page is search engine optimization (SEO).

Keep in mind that nobody exactly knows how Google ranks websites around keywords, content and more. But we have discovered many tricks that will drive a website higher in those rankings.

You also need to know that SEO is not an instant fix. It takes time for search engines to recognize your efforts.

As a small business, you may not have the resources to pay a SEO company, so I am going to supply you with 11 search engine optimization tips to help you bring your small business website’s rankings higher.

Search Engine Optimization Tips #1: Research Keywords

You will want to do keyword research to find the best keywords for your content and website. Keep in mind that high use keywords are not usually the answer because everyone is using them.

Focus on a niche keyword that will target a special group of people.

Using the yogurt example, I find the keyword phrases {yogurt reno} or {frozen yogurt reno nv} are both good choices.

Search Engine Optimization Tips #2: Always Add And Change

You consistently need to add new content and make various changes to your website.

If Google sends their robots and they report back the same results time after time, it WILL take your website down in rankings.

Search Engine Optimization Tips #3: Make Sure You Enter Your Business In Google My Business

It only makes good sense to enter your small business in this free Google service. This ensures your business will come to the top with local searches.

Search Engine Optimization Tips #4: Have Meta Titles And Descriptions For All Pages And Posts

There was a day when Google put the prime importance on keywords. Many webmasters began stocking their websites with keywords that really did not “fit” with the site.

Google updated their system several times and we now find there is more importance given to Meta Titles, Descriptions and Tags.

The Title Tag is very important. In 55 characters or less make a title that clearly explains what your business is and offers. The Meta Description is used to expand on the Title and give a deeper understanding of your business.

Search Engine Optimization Tips #5: Post On Social Media

When your content starts getting attention on social sites like Linkedin, Google+, Facebook and Twitter, it does help your search rankings.

You should even consider joining groups and communities on these social sites and sharing your content there.

Search Engine Optimization Tips #6: Length Does Count

The longer you can keep readers on your site, the better it looks to the search engines. Now, I do not agree with writing content that is “fluffy.”

Give your readers highly valuable content and I always suggest having at least 800 words or more.

Some bloggers are getting up to the 2,000 to 3,000 word range. I don’t see that as bad as long as you put visuals (charts, graphs, images, videos and infographics) in the mix to break the monotony.

Search Engine Optimization Tips #7: Keyword Placement

Where your keyword is and how often it shows up in your copy is important. I suggest your keyword be

  • In your title
  • In at least 1 subtitle
  • 1-4 times placed within every 500 words
  • It does help to have it in the first paragraph

Search Engine Optimization Tips #8: High Quality Backlinks Are Very Important

The number and quality of links pointing to your site will determine in what position your site ranks.

You should find time to comment on related websites and forums linking back to your site. Also, guest posting at high quality websites will gain you backlinks.

Search Engine Optimization Tips #9: Make Sure Your Website Is Mobile Friendly And Mobile Fast

In these days, a huge percentage of internet visitors are doing so from mobile devices. If your website is mobile fast and friendly, it DOES help your SEO rankings.

Search Engine Optimization Tips #10: Make Sure Images Have Titles That Correspond And An ALT Tag

Many small business owners neglect this important detail. Google looks closely at images to see if they are relevant. Make sure the title describes the image. Also, make sure there is an ALT tag that also is relevant.

Search Engine Optimization Tips #11: Hyperlink In And Out

It is good to hyperlink some words or phrases within your post to other posts on your site or to outside websites that are relevant to the words linked.

It looks good in Google’s eyes and some outer sources may see you linked to them and will return the favor.

Conclusion

Getting your small business found is what its all about. Use these tips and climb higher in the rankings.

To help you even more, I want to give you this 8 Step Checklist: How To Create A Crazy Profitable Website. Just click here and fill in your email and I will get it out to you.

Let’s get your small business

To The Top

eric tippets

Of Google Search.

Please share this with others and have a great day!

8 Inspiration Methods For Entrepreneurs – To The Top Tuesday

Motivation and inspiration are 2 completely different things.

You can have motivation without inspiration but it is quite difficult to have inspiration without motivation.

It is my firm stance that true motivation can only come from within, while inspiration can come from inside or outside. You see, I highly doubt that any person, place or thing other than the person looking at you in the mirror can motivate you.

But we can gain inspiration from anywhere, anything at any time. But there are times, inspiration can be fleeting; like a best-selling author who has moments with no words to write.

To help you, here are 8 inspiration methods.

inspiration

Inspiration Method #1: Write

How could I not put this first on the list since I mentioned the author?

No matter what, when or why, just keep a notebook and pen on you and write down every thought, dream or idea that enters your brain.

You need not dwell on it while you are “in the zone,” but when inspiration seems to be hidden behind a cloud, just go back through your notebook.

At least one of your entries is bound to inspire you.

Inspiration Method #2: Look To The Past

Study the past, if you would divine the future.” Confucius

While many entrepreneurs are looking for futuristic possibilities, I would suggest you just may find inspiration in the past.

What old invention could you take inspiration from and turn into a new design that solves problems?

It has once been said that there is nothing new on the face of the Earth, it is just redesigned to give the impression of being new.

Maybe it is a great time to visit a nearby antique store.

Inspiration Method #3: Change Your Scenery

This is a huge method! I know that because I am consistently changing my surroundings, I gain a ton of inspiration. Sometimes that inspiration may overwhelm the people around me as the ideas just pour out like a waterfall.

If you are uninspired, maybe you should go

  • Hiking in the Rocky Mountains
  • Take a Mexican siesta in Cabo San Lucas
  • Fly to Hong Kong
  • Or just go on a fishing excursion near home.

Just a simple change of scenery can fire up inspiring ideas.

Inspiration Method #4: A Tribal Brainstorm Session

Creativity is not the domain of one single person. Through free-association of thoughts and brainstorming, an accidental suggestion can be the best solution.” Joshua Fernandez

What happens when you put 5, 8, 10 or more creative minds together when you are feeling uninspired?

Magic!

Believe me, there will be some in that group who are inspired. As they start speaking their thoughts and ideas, it will be like David Copperfield pulling that magical inspirational “bunny” out of your brain.

What’s more, you can brainstorm via technology. No need to be all in one city!

Inspiration Method #5: Read

Find a book, blog post, newspaper… Just find stuff to read on a daily basis.

The material you read can range from futuristic to an old Western, it really need not matter.

Reading “fires up” our thoughts and can enliven our creativity.

I suggest you schedule a certain amount of time each day to read.

Inspiration Method #6: Exercise

You may be completely surprised what an early morning jog or bike ride will do for your inspiration powers.

Or hit the gym and lift some weights.

Exercise is a great way to move you into the inspiration “zone.”

Inspiration Method #7: Music

Music – The one incorporeal entrance into the higher world of knowledge which comprehends mankind but which mankind cannot comprehend.” Ludwig van Beethoven

Some entrepreneurs gain heavy inspiration from heavy metal music while others are inspired by a touch of jazz.

Try putting your favorite blend of music on and drown in the sound and let your inspiration come.

Inspiration Method #8: Delegate Some Of Your Current Tasks

I have discovered that as entrepreneurs, we can often lose our inspiration because we are so “caught up” in everyday tasks that are overwhelming our thought processes making it difficult to find the creative side.

Try making a list of all the tasks you are doing.

Now go through that list and determine which tasks could be handled by someone else.

Either delegate those tasks or contract a freelancer or virtual assistant and you will free much of your creative “data space,” allowing you to find inspiration.

Did This Help?

Are you feeling the inspiration?

I know that if you follow even one or more of these methods, you will get inspired.

You know, I mentioned reading earlier in this post and I want to help inspire you with my book: To The Top. The cost is only for shipping and handling and it will provide you with a blueprint for wealth.

Get “To The Top” Here.

I would love to hear what inspires you… Please share it with us in the comment section below. And please share this with your social friends too.

Much love and inspiration…

To The Top!

eric tippets

Trademark … Should You Get One?

Here Are Reasons You Should And Reasons You Shouldn’t Register A Trademark

Be it your personal name, business name or even your tagline or logo, you may be considering a trademark for it.

But should you?

It can be a difficult decision. Is it really worth the amount of money you will spend (trademarks are not cheap)?

There are pros and cons, and by no means can I, nor should I make that decision for you.

The reason I am writing this post is to just explain the pros and cons so you can be completely informed before filing a trademark application.

Facts About Trademarks And Registering Them

trademark

In this section, I am going to provide you with some basic facts.

A trademark is designed just to stop confusion

There is a common thought pattern that no other business can use a name if that name is trademarked.

That is a false thought pattern.

Let’s say you manufacture diesel engines and you trademarked your business name. A music company uses the same name but does not register for a trademark. You approach your attorney asking them to sue and your attorney will probably tell you there are no grounds. This is because the company is in a different category. There is no chance of confusing the 2 companies.

Now if that other company made, let’s say small engines, you would have grounds.

A trademark will protect your name nationwide

If you choose to incorporate or form a LLC, just companies within your State cannot use the business name. A trademark works nationwide.

Trademarks can take a long time to get processed

The process of registering a trademark is normally completed within 1 year, but some have taken several years.

You will have to choose a trademark class

The trademark class you choose will depend on the goods or services the business offers. There are 45 different classes.

A trademark is good for…

10 years and then you have to renew.

A trademark can help you attain the domain name

The Anti-Cybersquatting Consumer Protection law deems that if a person trademarks a name and another person is “sitting” on domain names that are directly associated with that trademark, they can be forced to transfer the domain name to the trademark owner.

So Is Registering A Trademark Worth It?

I am going to give you several reasons why you should register a trademark.

I am also going to give you several reasons why you shouldn’t register a trademark.

From that point, you are the judge, jury and executioner.

Reasons you should register a trademark

  • It will protect you from copycats and impostors.
  • Your brand has more protection on social media.
  • Unlike copyrights that do expire, trademarks can be renewed every 10 years for years upon years (infinite).
  • Registering a trademark build loyalty. Consumers will have more trust.
  • Having a trademark prevents cyber-squatters from holding certain domain names for ransom.

Reasons you shouldn’t register a trademark

  • The cost can be $225 – $325 just for registering. That does not include attorney fees and research costs. Yes, I do recommend you use an attorney.
  • You haven’t done research if it is available. You should absolutely search the United States Patent and Trademark Office database to ensure the trademark hasn’t already been taken. Remember, if you do file and it is taken, you still lose the application fee.
  • You could stir a beehive. Some trademark owners have people watching the public records. If your trademark could be construed to conflict with another trademark, you could find yourself in the midst of a confrontation that could be costly.
  • If you expect it to be a short lifespan. Maybe you plan on developing further and have goals of the name being out of date in 2 or 3 years. Does it really make sense to trademark it?
  • You already own a similar registration. Lets say you registered a name for hats that you manufacture. Now you are making gloves too. The first trademark will cover the gloves too.

What Are Your Thoughts?

First and foremost, I am not an attorney, so I do highly recommend you consult one about trademarks.

Do you have a trademark?

Do you plan on getting a trademark?

Did this post give you some insight?

Please post any comments or questions below.

No matter what you decide, keep in mind that the most important aspect of managing your business is keeping the finances straight. I developed an app that can help. Check out The Expense Tracker and see how you can save time and find tax breaks by using it.

Thanks for stopping by and please share this by hitting the social buttons below. Help others understand about trademarks.

To the Top!

eric tippets

8 Legal Tips For Entrepreneurs – To The Top Tuesday

It is a part of business that is ultra-important, but it many cases, legal issues and possibilities are often not discussed. Many entrepreneurs just hire an attorney (hopefully, at least) and throw the business legal responsibilities to them.

And do they know for sure that attorney can cover all the legal needs required in the business?

Did the entrepreneur ask the questions to ensure this attorney is knowledgeable in the legalities his/her particular business will require?

Many attorneys specialize in certain areas and a patent attorney may not understand labor laws.

Of all the legal tips I am going to give you today, make sure that this one is at the top of the list…

Disclaimer: I am not an attorney, so all the tips I am giving should be double checked by your attorney.

Legal Tips #1 – Question and make sure the attorney you contract can cover all your business needs or at least has a network of other attorneys versed in those areas.

I am going to give you 7 more legal tips you need to know as an entrepreneur. I suggest you print these or write them down.

You don’t want any small or large legalities becoming a roadblock to your entrepreneur dreams.

Legal Tips #2 – Your Business Structure

You may be better off setting your business structure up as a Limited Liability Company or a Corporation.

By doing so, you will protect your personal assets and it can also give you some good tax advantages.

Legal Tips #3 – Budget Enough

Legal costs can get somewhat high. I would say that if you have a legal budget in mind, add another 20% to it.

You never want to “low ball” your legal budget.

Legal Tips #4 – Get It In Writing

While an oral contract is binding, you still have to be able to prove it was said.

Why go through that stress?

Make sure everything is in writing. Even if it is just an email between the 2 parties, that is much better than a he/she said scenario.

Legal Tips #5 – Advice Could Haunt You If Not Protected

While it is not something that happens often, it does.

As entrepreneurs, we tend to share tips and advice. And if an individual follows your advice but something goes drastically wrong, they could possibly attempt to blame your advice.

The best protection against this is simple liability insurance. I suggest you speak with your business insurance agent about this.

And make sure you have all the other business insurance you need in the process.

Legal Tips #6 – Have A Clear Understanding Of Employment Legalities

While many small businesses are relying on independent contractors, freelancers, you need to be completely aware of all the legal definitions are between independent contractors and employees.

By understanding these legalities, you will keep your business on the good side of the Internal Revenue Service.

Legal Tips #7 – Make Sure Your Business Website Is Compliant

This is an area where many young entrepreneurs have made serious mistakes.

Your business website must have a privacy policy that covers how you use personal information from website visitors. You should have an attorney study that privacy policy to make sure you are compliant.

This also goes for a terms and conditions page. Keep in mind that you need to tell website visitors if you are promoting affiliate links.

Legal Tips #8 – If There Are Co-Founders, Have A Buy/Sell Agreement

It isn’t necessarily an exciting subject but when you have partners, you have to ensure there is a plan in place if 1 wants out or dies suddenly.

This is an area where having an attorney present is the wisest way.

Conclusion

To be quite honest, I am just slightly “touching” on the many legalities that entrepreneurs can have. There are many others such as:

  • Licenses
  • Leases
  • Trademarks and/or patents
  • Etc…

I highly recommend that you study all your legal subjects and consult with an attorney before you follow through with starting your new business.

This post is not written to frighten you, just open your eyes to the various things that must be done.

Again, I am not an attorney, so be sure and seek out a professional’s advice.

If you have any questions I have no problem with trying to give an answer or guiding you to a person who can answer it. Just post it below.

On the lighter side, I can help you with your home business. You will surely find the 3 in 1 tools in the Home Business Success Kit a great help. Just click here and learn more.

Thanks for visiting and will you please share this important information with your social friends?

To The Top!

eric tippets

Don’t Make Any Of These 10 Mistakes On Linkedin

While the majority of users consider Facebook the fun social site where you can somewhat be carefree, Linkedin is the professional network where entrepreneurs, professionals and job seekers intermingle. Some of what is done on Facebook could be deemed as professional mistakes on Linkedin.

Now as an entrepreneur, I believe you should follow the same professional etiquette on all social networks but if you absolutely must act foolish from time to time, I suggest that you leave out your Linkedin page for those antics.

No matter where you are in the professional world, I know you will be thankful you read this post and were forewarned about these 10 mistakes on Linkedin that could damage your reputation.

Mistakes On Linkedin #1: Typos

Linkedin does not have spell check, so take a close look at what you are writing. Yes, it probably will still happen, but having embarrassing typos like their when it should have been there can bring an attack from the University English professor.

Mistakes On Linkedin #2: No Photo Or A Terrible Photo

Make sure you have a photo… A good photo. Remember that Linkedin is professional, so make it a professional head shot. You may even consider in investing in a good shot.

Mistakes On Linkedin #3: No Past Experience

One of the primary items that others will examine when deciding to network with you is your past business or work experience. Do not neglect adding this information.

Mistakes On Linkedin #4: Your Title

If you are the CEO of (your business), put that. If you are the janitor, you may want to put something like The Leader of Clean.

Make sure your title is not boring and you will grab the attention of other professionals.

Mistakes On Linkedin #5: Spamming Other Linkedin Users With Your Business Opportunity

If you really want to damage your professional reputation quickly, just commit this major Linkedin mistake.

Sure, share your blog posts on your feed or in Linkedin groups that allow, but don’t “puke” your business proposition on people who have not requested it.

If a person requests info from you, you have the go-ahead… But only then.

Mistakes On Linkedin #6: Not Joining Groups

Being a member of a few groups that directly relate to your talents, business format or expertise is a great way to build your professional demeanor at Linkedin.

And do share in those groups. Believe me, you will meet some great contacts in, and through Linkedin groups.

Mistakes On Linkedin #7: Not Connecting With Influencers

It does help to follow and connect with influencers in your industry. By doing so, posts they share will come up on your feed and keep you aware of news. Items you share will often be liked and possibly shared by those influencers which will build your influence.

Mistakes On Linkedin #8: Posting Like You Do On Facebook

Keep in mind that posts on Linkedin need to be business, work or of a professional nature.

Really now, do you think the followers on Linkedin want to see your new litter of kittens? Or the roast beef and mashed potatoes you had for dinner?

Keep it professional!

Mistakes On Linkedin #9: Only Sharing Your Material

Yes, you have a great blog with a lot of educational material, but if all you are sharing is your blog posts, you still look like a spammer.

Mix in other material from other sources and you will be considered “well-rounded.”

Mistakes On Linkedin #10: Posting Negative Material Or Comments

The majority of Linkedin users do not want to associate with Nancy The Nag or Negative Norman.

Linkedin is not the place to post negative material and if you feel you must criticize, don’t do so publicly.

Linkedin is meant to be a positive zone.

Conclusion

There are right and wrong ways to use social media to build your business connections.

I know that many network marketers have the idea they can just join Linkedin and start recruiting people on their team. Yes, Linkedin is a great recruiting tool, but only if used properly.

If you want the bet recruiting tool, I suggest you invest in Rocket Recruiting. It gives you the ability to recruit a monstrous team. You can get Rocket Recruiting here.

Thanks for stopping by today.

I hope this helped you understand how to make Linkedin a great social site for your professional makeup.

If you have any questions, just post them below.

To The Top!

eric tippets

Eric Tippetts

Get Started! We will send you a special gift to your email address after you see your score on the results page.