And we’re off – #WiREHour is up and running!

Posted: 21st July 2015

WiRE_social-media-post-150x150Cheryl Turner from Tao Solutions introduces (and hosts) #WiREHour

I have to admit to being a bit of an addict when it comes to Twitter Hours on the popular micro-blogging social media site, so imagine my delight when Fiona at WiRE HQ agreed that creating a dedicated #WiREHour might just work, and that it would be another great opportunity for WiRE members to network and promote their businesses.

After two weeks of build-up on social media, it was with slight trepidation that I sat with my iPad at 7pm on Tuesday 14th July waiting for the first ever #WiREHour to start – and the fear that I would be in for a very long hour of nothingness.

I am pleased to report that I have never been more wrong in my life!  Almost immediately, the fantastic ladies of WiRE across the UK were Tweeting like crazy!  New connections were made, businesses and events were promoted and those new to Twitter Hours tentatively paddled their toes in the surf of the great ocean known as social networking!

Hopefully, #WiREHour will continue to grow over the coming weeks and months.  If you’re still baffled by the whole concept of networking from the comfort of your own armchair, here’s a quick guide to Twitter hours, and how they can benefit your business.

In A Nutshell –

What? 

  • A Twitter #Hour is an hour dedicated to a certain geographic location/industry sector/networking group.  Think of it as an online networking meeting – without having to physically go anywhere.

When?

  • The majority of #Hours take place at the same time every week – the trick is remembering them all! There are plenty of websites listing the various Twitter hours – or just use Twitter’s search facility to find a Twitter hour near you.

Why?

  • Twitter #Hours are a fantastic way to interact with other businesses in your target area or market sector.  You may also pick up a lead or two!
  • Twitter #Hours can help you to gain followers – the more you engage, the more followers you will gain.
  • Use Twitter #Hours to raise your business profile and share your knowledge, as well as recommend other businesses you may have an association with.

How?

  • Simples!  Just send (or schedule!) a tweet at the appropriate time of the #Hour you want to target, but don’t forget to include the #hashtag, as this is how other Twitter users will follow tweets during the #Hour.  For WiRE, use the hashtag #WiREHour in your tweet.

I hope you’ve found that quick guide helpful, and look forward to “meeting” you during #WiREHour – every Tuesday from 7pm.