Here is my article which was first published on Social Media Examiner:
Are you still using the standard Twitter backdrop? If you’re looking leave a lasting impression, you should consider swapping out that plain-Jane image for something more exciting.
Your Twitter background helps convey your brand and convey a positive first impression.
This is the second of a two-part series of tips to create a strong Twitter profile. In the first part, we covered the first five steps to creating your Twitter profile. Now let’s talk about your image.
Creating Your Twitter Background
By changing the default Twitter background on your Twitter profile, you show your audience you’re not a spambot. And it also gives you the opportunity to create a more inviting environment to engage with your audience and even to brand your business.
Using Free Twitter Backgrounds
If you want to use a free, easy-to-install Twitter background, have a look at what Twitter has to offer first. On your Twitter page, go to the Account Settings link. There you’ll find a Design tab where you’re able to change your Twitter background and Twitter design colors.
In addition to these 20 Twitter designs, you’ll see a link to ColourLovers, where you can easily create your own designs. There are many other free resources for Twitter backgrounds and you’re sure to find one to suit your tastes.
It’s easy to change your Twitter background from the Design tab under Settings.
Investing in a Custom Twitter Background
Whether you represent a business and want to create a Twitter background to maintain consistent branding across all of your communication platforms, or just want a custom Twitter background, you can try to do it yourself if you’re handy with creating images or you can have it done for you.
If you want to create your own Twitter background, you’ll need to create a specific-size image. You’ll also have to remember to view the finished result on different screen sizes. There are two main limitations with setting up your custom background:
- It’s an image and won’t have any active links. This means you should try to use easy-to-remember links and not clutter this space with too much information.
- The visible area on either side of your Twitter feed will be different sizes depending on the size of the screen used by your viewers. For example, let’s say you set up your Twitter background to look good on a large computer screen. However, if a large portion of the people you want to connect with use smaller screens, your communication will be lost.
This is Chris Garrett’s Twitter page as seen on one computer screen.
This is Chris Garrett’s Twitter page seen from a smaller computer screen.
Get More From Your Twitter Background
Personality
Of course, your Twitter background is a great place to get creative and show some personality. After a little Twitter networking, you’re sure to find a wide range of creative Twitter backgrounds. You don’t need to get carried away with design; simple designs also work well to connect with people.
It’s easy to get a glimpse of Johnny B Truant’s personality here on his Twitter background.
Extended bio
You can also use your Twitter background image to share more information about yourself not included in your bio. Consultants and businesses may want to put their phone number, email and other relevant contact details here. If you’re worried about spam when giving out your email address, you could create an email address specifically for your Twitter networking.
Again, these won’t be active links and you need to verify that everything fits well when viewed from different screen sizes. But this can help you to connect with your Twitter audience. Keep in mind that you can’t scroll Twitter backgrounds. Rather, they remain fixed on the page and content scrolls on top of them. So don’t extend your design too far down the page or it may not be visible for some users.
Brian Solis uses the background to provide more information on how to reach him.
Seasonal customization
You can also create more dynamic branding and incite interaction from your Twitter followers by customizing your Twitter background or Twitter picture for seasonal holidays and special events.
Mari Smith often changes her profile picture to match the season or special events. This one was for Cinco de Mayo.
What’s your favorite Twitter background? Do you customize your Twitter profile for holidays or events? And if so, do you notice any difference in engagement from your audience? As always, please share your comments below.
She is who I turn to when I have questions and you should too"
-- Chris Garrett, co-author of the "Problogger" book
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