THE RUNDOWN ON TWITTER FLEETS
Have you heard of Twitter’s new feature, Fleets? On November 17, 2020, Twitter launched their version of Stories, allowing users to share momentary thoughts for only 24 hours. Following behind Snapchat, Instagram, and Facebook, Twitter now has the familiar format and what users are saying lives just for a moment in time. Here is the rundown on Twitter Fleets and what to expect with the new feature.
Why the Jump On the Band Wagon?
According to Twitter, it was brought to their attention that “Tweeting is sometimes uncomfortable because it feels so public, so permanent, and like there’s so much pressure to rack up Retweets and Likes.” The team set out to find a solution, driven to no longer have great Tweets left in drafts. In designing Fleets and testing it in Brazil, Italy, India, and South Korea, they found that people felt more comfortable joining the conversation since it disappears after a day. It provides an easier way to share personal and casual thoughts, opinions, and feelings. The creation of this product ultimately is an effort to spark interaction in a new way.
How It Works
Fleets are for sharing momentary thoughts and help start conversations and only stick around for 24 hours. The new feature is located at the top of the home timeline. Anyone who can see your full profile can see your Fleets there too. Within Fleets, you can write text, share a Tweet, record a video, or post a photo. The ability to customize your Fleets with various background and text options is offered. To share a Tweet as a Fleet, tap the “Share” icon at the bottom and then tap “Share in Fleet.” Twitter recently announced they will soon offer stickers and live broadcasting within Fleets.
How to Use It For Your Business
According to Fortune, Fleets offer another venue for Twitter to sell advertising. “It’s estimated that Instagram Stories is responsible for 10% of all Facebook advertising. Facebook reported more than $21 billion in advertising revenue in the third quarter.” Twitter is considering integrating ads within Fleets but is not yet doing so. If Twitter is a recommended platform for your business, we recommend you get familiar with the feature now. Integrate it into your business’ digital strategy to become familiar with the new product and stay relevant with your social media organic posting, along with paid posting.
Bottom Line
In the words of Twitter, Fleets give you the power to use and interact with Twitter in a whole new way, right in the moment. It is designed to give people more places to interact with one another on the platform in a way that is not necessarily public or visible on a user’s profile long term. Though it is a familiar format, your business can begin interacting with it now to stay in the presence of your Twitter audience.
