Hashtags are a Twitter staple. In fact, people with various backgrounds and interests rely on these to get and share information. However, there are still basic errors committed by individuals when using hashtags. Learn more about why your hashtags may not be working or why you may not be generating as many people as you like.
Basic Rules on Hashtags
1. The ?#? symbol only appears before the keywords
Some people use hashtags before and after, or similar to how they use quotations, which will render the hashtag ineffective. The ?#? symbol will categorize the topics accordingly so any Twitter user who uses the same hashtag can be guided to the conversation.
2. Using punctuations
Punctuations in the hashtags or after will also render the hashtag in error. Do not use apostrophes in the middle or punctuation marks in the end, including a period, comma or colon. The hashtag will end where you place the punctuation. Examples of mistakes are #ThankGodIt?sFriday and #WhyMe?
3. Precedents to the ?#? symbol
Do not put any letter, punctuation or words before the ?#? symbol. It will result to zero searches and render the hashtag dysfunctional. The hashtag should only consist of the ?#? sign followed by the keywords. Examples of mistakes are its#Christmas or ?#HowAreYou.
4. Purely numbers
Do not use numbers solely because these will not be searchable or hyperlinked. Add words or letters to make it more distinguishable and also functional. Examples of mistakes are #143 and #100. Add just one letter or word with the hashtag will make it work.
5. Putting spaces
Do not put spaces between the words. The hashtag will end when you put the space. Examples of mistakes are #ILove Basketball and #Come With Me. The hashtag will only register the words immediately beside the ?#? sign. To create separation, capitalize the first letter of each word instead.
More Tips for Effective Hashtags
1. Use few keywords only
Many individuals make the mistake of using very long hashtags, which will confuse potential followers. Use two to three words that adequately define the topic. Add the year or most common terms that will most likely by used by individuals on the search bar. Assume that some people do not know the exact hashtag so using basic words will increase your visibility.
2. Spread these
Let others know about existing hashtags by using these frequently in your tweets throughout the day. There will be more people interested to join if they are reminded always about the topic.
Hashtags are a Twitter staple. In fact, people with various backgrounds and interests rely on these to get and share information. However, there are still basic errors committed by individuals when using hashtags. Learn more about why your hashtags may not be working or why you may not be generating as many people as you like.
