We talked not too terribly long ago about Twittering Tactically, that is using Twitter in a tactical fashion for business purposes. I've seen a lot more businesses adopting Twitter for making social connections that advance their business. Let's focus on some of the better ones.
Cruise Source, a Charlotte-based travel agent specializing in cruise vacations, runs contests via Twitter. To enter, all you have to do is follow @CruiseSource and @CruiseDeals on Twitter and retweet this message: "@CruiseSource @CruiseDeals This is my entry to win the Free Cruise http://tr.im/WINACRUISE !"
This approach increases the number of people following the company on Twitter, which allows the company to reach more people with its message. A highly cost-efficient method of marketing.
We talked recently with Jim Deitzel of Rubbermaid about some of his Twitter activities designed to advance the brand's marketing goals. He often cranks up spur of the moment giveaways on Twitter using Top 40 radio methods, e.g., 12th DM wins.
Whole Foods is getting into the Twitter act from follower rewards to customer service. Check out their blog to find out how it is rewarding its Twitter followers with $25 gift cards. JetBlue is using Twitter for customer service-related issues as well.
BusinessWeek had an article worth reading about how a number of bigger brands are using Twitter.
Are you using Twitter for your business? Do tell.