It might seem intimidating to communicate a message in 140 characters, especially for those getting started with Twitter. That’s completely understandable. After all, no one likes their thought to be cut short.

But it doesn’t have to be difficult for you to successfully use Twitter for your business. Here are three easy to implement ideas that will make your tweets sing and help you get the attention you deserve.

1. Imitate the pros

Not sure what to say in so few words? If you’re having trouble, check out some headlines from your favorite magazine, newspaper, or news website. Great headlines pique reader interest, get right to the point, and leave readers wanting more—that’s what your tweet should do too! Simply follow the headline formulas the pros use by swapping out their topics for yours.

2.  Engage with your followers

Even in the realm of social media, the golden rule still applies. What does that mean? If you want your followers to pay attention to you, you have to pay attention to them too! Following your customers, starting a conversation, and even retweeting their posts can go a long way. Showing you’re listening and interested in what they have to say is a compliment too big to ignore!

These interactions increase the likelihood of your followers paying attention when you tweet. If you see a tweet about your business, respond when appropriate. Talking with your followers shows that you care what they think and are open to conversation.

3. Don’t take Twitter too #seriously

As important as it is to keep customers updated and engaged, they’re also looking to be entertained. More than any other social media, Twitter encourages a sharp biting wit and a healthy dose of humor. Don’t shy away from tweets that show off some quirky personality.

If witty or funny aren’t your things, don’t worry! What’s most important is that your tweets have a point of view. Share what rings true to you. If you run an art gallery, spruce up your feed with some Van Gogh quotes. Designer boutiques might want to keep their followers up-to-date on trends by linking to recent fashion articles. Whatever you decide your approach should be, don’t feel like you have to be about all business all the time.

Don’t let Twitter stress you out.

Keeping your followers up-to-date is half the battle; letting them get to know you is just as important. So just follow the tips above and you’ll find your followers paying attention and making it worth for it you to invest your time, energy, and voice to Twitter.

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Gina Watkins is a leading expert on e-marketing for small business – and has a real passion for helping businesses to succeed. Her ongoing series of dynamic lectures are filled with real-world examples, humor and results-driven wisdom garnered from more than two decades of sales, business development and marketing experience. In addition to owning her own business, she is an award-winning direct marketer, has been featured on WUSA Channel 9’s Mind Over Money show, Dr. Gayle Carson’s Women In Business radio show, Morgan State’s Briefcase Radio program, and in numerous other media. In her role as Constant Contact Regional Development Director, she’s presented to more than ten thousand seminar attendees about the keys to success with easy, affordable, highly effective technology tools that grow trusted business relationships.