1. Hashtag - Any word beginning with the # sign. People use hashtags to organize conversations around a specific topic. Clicking on a hashtag takes you to search results for that term.

2. Mention - A public Tweet directed to another user that includes their @username. Mentions are clickable and link back to the mentioned individual's profile.

3. Reply - A public response to a Tweet via the reply button. Replies show up in your home timeline and the timeline of the person to whom you are responding to. You must follow both parties to see the full conversation.
4. Retweet - You can pass along someone's Tweet by retweeting it. Just hit the Retweet button to send the original message to all of your followers.
5. Links - Twitter's link-shortening feature allows you to paste a link of any length into a Tweet and it will automatically be shortened.

Listen first

It's tempting to start tweeting right away. But before you begin, follow and observe brands and businesses similar to yours to see what they're doing well. You can also search for industry keywords on Twitter for inspiration or to see what people are already saying about you.

Mention and be mentioned

To mention others in your Tweets, include their @usernames in your message. Mention your followers in positive Tweets that contain relevant, personalized content to establish goodwill on Twitter. They may do the same for you in the future, giving you added exposure.

Get fancy

• Congrats-you're up on the basics. But there's a lot more to Twitter. Include images and videos in your Tweets. This is a no-brainer. Data shows that these elements can double your engagement (Buddy Media, 6/26/12, "Strategies for Effective Tweeting: A Statistical Review").
• Integrate your Twitter account across existing digital properties and physical channels. Anywhere your customers interact with your brand is an opportunity to encourage them to follow you on Twitter.
• Take your Tweets to the next level with the right mix of voice, style and content.