Set up just two months ago, in May, the account already has a following of over 3,700 firms, many of whom are busy sharing leads.
Examples of today’s posts include:
RT @steph_laing: Anyone know where I can source plain white fair trade cotton cushion covers. Bit rustic in texture if poss? #msrfr
RT @Memset_Kate: Can anyone recommend a good, but not too expensive, freelance 3D technical graphic designer? #msrfr
RT @johnoenglish: Good electrician required: anyone know of one based in London or surrounding areas get them to message me. #msrfr
Those sending these messages are not looking for businesses to reply saying: “Pick me, pick me.” The clue to what they want to hear is in the first three words of the middle tweet: “Can anyone recommend...?”
You’ll already know how important recommendations and referrals are to business. When a potential new customer opens a conversation with “I was told you could help with...” you’re already in a strong position to win the business. It’s not guaranteed, but you’re much better placed then if it were a cold enquiry.
Of course, if you could supply any of the services requested in those tweets, and were looking for opportunities, you should probably respond. There’s no harm in putting yourself forward.
But it would much better if your customers or contacts promoted you. One tweet from them is worth much more than a dozen from yourself, because they’re offering a positive view of what you have to offer.
If you’re not following @msrfr, why not give it a go? Make a request of your own to see what happens. Recommend someone else when you get the chance. And look out for that wonderful moment when someone puts your name forward as a potential supplier, and then act on it.
@msrfr is run by Mark Shaw, a Twitter expert who advises various media organisations, including the BBC, on the role of Twitter. Click here to read a review of his book, “Twitter Your Business”.
Looking for more Twitter tips? Take a look at these:
Six business uses for Twitter
5-Day Twitter Action Plan
5 Reasons why posting links in Twitter doesn't work
5 Reasons why you're not getting more followers on Twitter
