Social networking sites traditionally associated with a younger user profile have seen a sharp rise in the number of businesses and organisations who are using this powerful communications tool to engage and interact with current and potential customers. As the demographics of users becomes wide and varied, a unique opportunity has arisen to tap into an audience whose disposable income, life stage and values make them an attractive prospect and proposition for advertisers and their marketing efforts.

The likes of networking sites such as facebook and twitter used to send status and update messages between peers is as an exciting and dynamic means by which to stay informed. More recently, it has also been established as an invaluable medium for many advertisers and brands alike. But what stands out as remarkable is the rise in market sectors and small businesses that at a glance may appear to be out of place on the likes of Twitter. Such business have in the past been categorised into standard forms of advertising in local newspapers and annual business directories.

One said category which has had much coverage in the media in recent years due to the negative press surrounded by 'botched jobs' and unpleasant customer experience is Building Insurance Repairs. As such, the nature of this industry relies heavily on word of mouth and recommendations from existing and past customers to drive and achieve new business. This forms the very basis of the key principles behind twitter's digital manifestation for businesses and a great example of how twitter can be used to influence and change misconceptions of this sector by users who micro blog their experiences on the site.

The question, however, arises as to whether users will find the content of 'blogs' on insurance repairs exciting and engaging enough to want to follow the tweets on the latest status and available procedures on water and fire repair damage for example.

The process of identifying a reputable Insurance repair contractor is a fraught and highly competitive process where educating homeowners about the options available to them is paramount. For most homeowners, a simple glance and shortlist of their local directory or a search online will suffice. However, twitter offers the perfect opportunity to talk directly to customers in a way that previously could only be achieved in dialogue over initial and subsequent telephone conversations. For many businesses, this liaison on twitter could start the building process of an 'emotional relationship' that can instil confidence to the home owner.

That said, business transactions are not actually made on twitter, as a result some may question its actual benefits if; but considering that the networking site can offer a unique opportunity for Buildings repair contractors to access potential clients with no cost associated, it makes perfect marketing and common sense.

So when you happen to stumble upon a blog from Mr. Joe Bloggs builder or independent insurance specialist, do not raise an eyebrow as to the misfit of the profile of these users on the likes of twitter stunned as to the context or content of its tweet. Rather it is testimony to the digital manifestation of social networking and its increasing appeal to the business world.

About Oakleafe:

Oakleafe is a company specialising in refurbishment and insurance repairs to properties. We are expert insurance repair contractors who use our wealth of experience and knowledge to ensure you, the policyholder receives their full entitlement in all respects after a claim. We offer free claim handling dealing directly with the insurance company and loss adjustor for you, removing the stress involved in making a claim. In addition we will invoice the insurance company direct after the repair and refurbishment has been completed to your satisfaction.