I’ve noticed that many brands on twitter are using promotional codes in their autofollow messages. I know autofollow messages aren’t popular. However, I like this strategy for brands. If you’re a brand, it’s an immediate way to offer a benefit to a follower. And I do not simply dismiss autofollow messages as all bad. I think it’s a function of creativity and relevance. People don’t want to speak with a machine–that’s for sure–but there are ways to craft a message that reflects the personality of the brand. When in doubt, I wouldn’t use an autofollow message. However, if you can craft a message, and a promo code, that benefits your followers in real, tangible ways–makes them laugh or think–then go for it. Your thoughts?

I’ve always respected people who do. And it just so happens, that one of my clients, Trish Karter, is one of these people. She’s the CEO of Dancing Deer, an avid cyclist who runs a double bottom-line company. Dancing Deer’s corporate cause is family homelessness, and Trish Karter is advocating for that cause in a unique and real way.

From April 22-May 6 she’s climbing on her bike, travelling more than 1,500 and staying at homeless shelters along the way. The purpose of this ride is to raise awareness about family homelessness, and my company, refine+focus is helping introduce Trish to people on social networks for whom this cause is important.
Every day we’re learning more about family homelessness and the people it impacts. And over the next few weeks, I plan on sharing what I learn with you, both here on my blog, as well as everywhere I live online. I encourage you to check out Dancing Deer’s bike ride initiative, and if it interests you, join us in this cause (by tweeting, posting, asking questions, etc).

Here’s Dancing Deer’s blog, and I think this feature—that lets you track Trish in real-time, is especially cool.