Twitter is in the process of making it easier for businesses and those who use the platform for work to better promote their brand and company information. This is only the latest in a string of changes that Twitter has been introducing later, including the option to upload 4K photos. However, while the bulk of those changes have focused on the general micro-blogging user base, this one is specifically designed for the more professional side of Twitter.
Twitter is a platform that appeals to many users. Although it might not have as many daily active users as some others, one of its major selling points is what’s happening. This can make it a great option for those in certain industries where being connected to the pulse of an industry matters. In this sense, it is less about connecting and networking, like with LinkedIn, and more about being in the know. However, that may be in the process of changing.
Twitter has now confirmed it is testing Professional Profiles, a profile type aimed at those using Twitter primarily for work. Although a business can already display its name and website in its bio, the new Professional Profiles expands on the amount of information that can be displayed. Most notably, there’s a new About section that not only shows a company’s business address and hours of operation, but also direction and contact buttons as well. According to Twitter, the new feature is currently being tested with “a small pool of businesses” and only in the United States. However, Twitter’s own Kayvon Beykpour explained how this is just the start, suggesting more business-focused changes and improvements, and/or further customization options, could be coming in due course.
How Professions Profiles Benefit Everyone
Twitter specifically points out how Professional Profiles are expected to benefit “businesses, non-profits, publishers, and creators” and caveats that point by suggesting the new feature might be useful to anyone who uses the platform primarily for work. However, it is also likely to improve the experience for Twitter users in general, albeit not necessarily to a major degree. For example, much of the new information can be found through a Google Search or even on Facebook. Therefore, Twitter is not offering features that can’t be accessed elsewhere, but a more streamlined way to access them. If someone already follows a professional individual or brand, changes like these will result in a more convenient way to find out additional information when it’s needed. Twitter is already a place where many consumers reach out to businesses for assistance, and the contact information might further help by making it easier and quicker to call or get directions.
Arguably, the last point highlights how Professional Profiles could prove to be a very useful addition for local businesses in particular. With Twitter users able to, at a glance, see where a local business is located and their general opening hours, and all without having to leave the app, they might be more encouraged to visit, and at a time when local businesses are still reeling from the effects of the pandemic. Again, as all of this information is already available elsewhere, Professional Profiles are not necessarily groundbreaking, just more of an additional convenience than what Twitter currently offers.
