A Tweet chat is an interactive way to use Twitter to have a conversation with others about a specific topic or idea. A moderator hosts the chat and keeps the conversation moving forward. At Manta, we are starting our own tweet chat called #MantaSMB. This chat will focus on trends, tips and advice for small business owners.

The Basics:

Here’s the basic info you need to know about participating in a Tweet chat.

• To participate  in a Tweet chat, you must be a Twitter user. If you aren’t a Twitter user, sign  up at www.twitter.com.
• Tweet chats use hashtags. A hashtag is a way to track a specific topic or event on Twitter. Hashtags  begin with the hashmark (or pound) symbol (#) and incorporate a word or series of words with no spaces. Examples of hashtags are #smallbusiness,  #smb, etc. In the case of our tweetchat, the hashtag is #MantaSMB.
• Tweet chats are  scheduled on specific days and times. The first Manta chat will be Tuesday,  July 12, at 8 p.m. ET.
• Tweet chats are  run by moderators who keep the conversation moving forward. In the typical  tweet chat, a moderator asks questions for the group to answer during  the chat. For Manta’s chat, the Twitter  handle @Manta will be the moderator.
• Tweet chats  thrive on conversation. In order to get the most from a chat, one must participate.

How to Participate:

Follow these step-by-step instructions to participate in your first chat.

1. At the scheduled chat time, log onto www.tweetchat.com (or whatever tweet chat tool you like) using your twitter name and password. Enter the hashtag at the top of the screen. In our case, the chat is on July 12 at 8 p.m. ET, and the hashtag is #MantaSMB.
2. Let your followers know you will be participating in a chat, then introduce yourself or wait for the chat to begin. The moderator will start the conversation by asking a question in all caps. Here’s an example: Q1– HOW DO YOU BALANCE BEING A BUSINESS OWNER AND HAVING A FAMILY? #MantaSMB
3. When you answer questions, make sure you notate which question you are answering. For example: A1 – I set priorities so I can balance by time between my business and my
   family. #MantaSMB
4. Remember to add the chat hashtag to the end of your tweets. A tool like www.tweetchat.com will automatically do this for you.
5. Don’t be afraid to add your thoughts to the topic or to ask follow-up questions. As long as your questions are on topic, they are welcome during the tweet chat.
6. Avoid sales pitches or marketing messages; the chat is about sharing your experiences not selling your products. Often moderators will open up the floor for these types of tweets at the end of the chat.
7. Get to know the other participants. As you start participating in the tweet chat, if you find some of the participants to be interesting, insightful, or helpful, be sure to add these people to the list of Twitter users you follow. This is a great way to build your network.

Details on Manta’s Tweet Chat:

When: July 12 at 8p.m. ET

Topic: Summer Tips and Trends for Small Business

Hashtag: #MantaSMB

We hope you can join us for our first Tweet chat!

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