# How to Set Up X (Twitter) for Your Australian Business
In the fast-paced world of digital marketing, X (formerly Twitter) remains a powerhouse for real-time customer service, industry networking, and brand building. For Australian small businesses, it offers a unique opportunity to join local conversations, engage with journalists, and provide instant support to your community.
Setting up your profile correctly from day one ensures you look professional and helps you get discovered by the right people in Brisbane and beyond.
Prerequisites: What You’ll Need
Before you start, gather the following:- A dedicated business email address (avoid using a personal one).
- A high-resolution logo (square format, at least 400x400 pixels).
- A header image (landscape format, 1500x500 pixels).
- Your Australian Business Number (ABN) (if you plan to apply for verification/X Premium later).
- A brief business description (160 characters or less).
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Step 1: Create Your Account
Navigate to x.com on your desktop browser. While you can use the mobile app, the desktop version provides a better overview of all settings during the initial setup.Click "Create account". You will be prompted to enter your name, email, and date of birth.
Pro Tip: Use your actual business name for the "Name" field. For the date of birth, use your own or the business's founding date—X uses this to verify you are of legal age to use the platform.
Step 2: Verify Your Identity
X will send a verification code to your email address. Retrieve this code and enter it into the prompt. If you don't see it within two minutes, check your junk or spam folder—Australian email providers like BigPond or Optusnet sometimes filter these aggressively.Step 3: Choose a Password
Create a strong, unique password. We recommend using a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols. Since this is a business account, consider using a password manager like LastPass or 1Password so your team can access it securely if needed.Step 4: Pick Your @Handle
Your handle (username) is your unique identifier (e.g., @LocalMarketingGroup).- Keep it short: Shorter handles are easier to remember and tag.
- Keep it consistent: Ideally, this should match your Instagram or Facebook handle.
- Localise if needed: If your business name is taken, try adding "AU" or your city, like @YourBusinessBNE or @YourBusinessAU.
Step 5: Upload Your Profile Picture and Header
Your profile picture should be your company logo. X crops this into a circle, so ensure your logo is centred with enough "breathing room" around the edges so the corners don't get cut off.Next, upload your header image. This is your digital billboard. Use this space to showcase your products, your Brisbane storefront, or a current promotion.
Screenshot Description: You should see a preview of your profile with a circular space for the logo and a wide rectangular space at the top for the header. There will be an "Edit Profile" button on the right.Step 6: Write a Compelling Bio
You have 160 characters to tell the world who you are.- Include Keywords: Mention what you do (e.g., "Plumbing services in South Brisbane").
- Add a CTA: Tell people what to do next (e.g., "Click below for a free quote").
- Use Hashtags Sparingly: One relevant hashtag is fine, but don't overdo it.
Step 7: Add Your Location and Website
This is crucial for local SEO. In the "Location" field, enter your specific suburb or "Brisbane, QLD". In the website field, paste your full URL (e.g.,https://lmgroup.au). Ensure you include the https:// to make the link clickable.
Step 8: Customise Your Professional Profile
Once the basic account is set up, click on "More" in the left-hand sidebar, then "Professional Home". X allows you to convert to a "Professional Account" for free.Select your category (e.g., "Advertising & Marketing" or "Retail"). This unlocks features like a "Link Spotlight" or "Shop Spotlight" where you can feature specific products or your physical address directly on your profile.
Step 9: Configure Privacy and Safety
Navigate to Settings and Support > Settings and privacy > Privacy and safety.- Audience and tagging: Ensure your posts are "Public" (not protected) so potential customers can find you.
- Direct Messages: We recommend allowing message requests from everyone so customers can reach out with enquiries, but keep an eye out for spam.
Step 10: Set Up Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Protect your brand from hackers. Go to Settings > Security and account access > Security > Two-factor authentication. We recommend using an Authentication App (like Google Authenticator) rather than SMS, as it is more secure.Step 11: Follow Local Influencers and Partners
Start populating your feed by following relevant accounts. Follow the Brisbane City Council, local news outlets (like ABC Brisbane), and industry bodies. This helps X's algorithm understand your location and interests.Step 12: Send Your First Post
Don't leave your profile blank! Send a "Hello World" post. Example: "Hi Brisbane! We’re excited to join X. Follow us for the latest updates on [Your Service] and local news. #BrisbaneBusiness #SmallBizAU"---
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using a personal photo: Unless you are the face of the brand (like a consultant), stick to your logo.
- Ignoring the Bio: A blank bio looks like a bot account. Always fill it out.
- Posting and Ghosting: X is a social platform. If someone replies to you, make sure to reply back promptly.
- Over-automating: Avoid cross-posting every single Facebook update to X automatically. The formats are different, and it often looks messy.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Handle is taken: If your preferred handle is taken but inactive, X rarely releases them. Try adding a "The" at the start or "AU" at the end.
- Images look blurry: Ensure you are using the recommended dimensions (1500x500 for headers). If you use a small image and X stretches it, it will look unprofessional.
- Verification (Blue Tick) issues: To get the blue checkmark now, you must subscribe to X Premium. This requires a verified phone number and a profile that has been active for at least 30 days.
Next Steps
Now that your X profile is live and looking professional, it’s time to start engaging!- Create a Content Calendar: Plan to post at least 3-5 times a week.
- Monitor Mentions: Check your notifications daily to respond to customers.
- Explore X Ads: If you want to reach a specific Brisbane demographic, consider a small ad spend.
Need help managing your social media presence or developing a strategy that actually drives leads? Contact the team at Local Marketing Group today for expert advice tailored to the Australian market.