Recent history has shown that Twitter is more than a social media network.  It is a technological tool that connected people during the Arab Spring and aided relief efforts during the disasters in Haiti and Japan. Many organizations and individuals worldwide have already used Twitter to effect positive global change.

In the recently released book, Twitter for Good: Change the World One Tweet at a Time, author Clair Diaz-Ortiz shows non-profit organizations how to use Twitter to promote a cause, raise funds, and 'be a force for good"---she also advises on how to avoid common mistakes. Geared towards organizations, the tips and tools offered here can also be utilized by anyone, including individuals and for-profit businesses.

"As a simple platform where open communication reigns, Twitter elevates the individual voice; the strength of its platform is in the strength of the users. In this way, individual activism can change the world," writes Diaz-Ortiz, Head of Corporate Social Innovation and Philanthropy for Twitter and co-founder of the non-profit Hope Runs, which helps AIDS orphanages in Kenya.

Assuming that the reader is already on Twitter or can figure out how to join on the Twitter website, her book isn't a step-by-step instruction manual on how to use the social media platform, but rather a resource of helpful strategies for those with specific goals in mind.

Diaz-Ortiz outlines a five-step process called T.W.E.E.T. (Target, Write, Engage, Explore, Track). This framework breaks down the best tactics both organizations and individuals can use to get the most out of a Twitter account. The author also provides case studies of successful Twitter campaigns to illustrate the tips and practices she suggests as well as links to resources.

The first step of the strategy model is to hone in on a target. Diaz-Ortiz suggests that organizations not just jump on the bandwagon, but instead take a close look at why they are on Twitter and what they hope to gain from using the platform. Non-profits can use Twitter in one or more effective ways: to provide information, to put a personalized, friendly face on their organization, and/or to raise funds.

After an organization has defined its purpose on Twitter, it needs to know how to effectively craft and write Tweets. Diaz-Ortiz encourages organizations to jump in and start Tweeting. She talks about deciding who should write an organization's Tweets, how often to Tweet, and how to enhance Tweets with multimedia.

To be successful, organizations must also engage their audience. In this third step, the author introduces the proper usage of hashtags, lists, @replies, and retweets.

The fourth step, explore, gives organizations ways to attract new followers and strengthen relationships with existing supporters.  She also suggests methods on how to contact and develop relationships with "influencers," individuals who can help a non-profit's cause.

The final step for an organization is to track its progress and ask themselves: Are we still on target? Did we meet our goals? Where do we need to improve? Diaz-Ortiz then goes on to suggest ways to measure and track your efforts for informational, personalized or fundraising account.

Twitter for Good is a helpful, easy-to-follow and informative guide for any organization or individual who seeks to make the best of use of  their Twitter account to achieve social good.

The Grantwell is now offering social media assistance packages! We can help you create and manage a social media presence for your organization. Contact us today for more information on how we can help.