In conversation with one of my very favorite people about sub-optimal results when searching Twitter for his account, I was motivated to learn some valuable search engine tips for Twitter.

You will see that I hold some SEO tips in higher regard than others. I believe quality content and authenticity trumps SEO every time. However, now and then, I figure one’s account could maybe use a little help so here are 5 Articulate MediaWorks- approved SEO tips for Twitter:

1. A tip that I saw repeatedly during my research, was never use an underscore in your Twitter name. I’m not exactly sure why search engines have trouble with this, but apparently it is a no-no so I’m passing it on. Instead of ”Teddy_Bear,” use “TeddyBear.” If you need to change your Twitter name, Twitter support tells you how to do it. I’m told it is seamless.

It may take awhile for search engines to pick up on the change. After you’ve changed it, immediately open another account with your old Twitter name. This will direct anyone who searches for your old name to a functional page rather than a 404 error message. Put a message in the bio stating that @youroldname is inactive and has been changed to @yournewname and invite them to follow you there.

2. If it is realistic, consider your Twitter name as an opportunity to describe your business. Teddy_Bear might become TeddyBearMaker.

3. It’s fun to be whimsical in your bio and that helps personalize your brand, but search engines use the text in your bio as they use meta tags in the code for your website, so include some relevant keywords and descriptions in there too.

4. It won’t hurt to name any photos you post with keywords. For example, image23334.jpg becomes ninja-teddy-bear.jpg. Same goes for videos and list names.

5. SEO experts will tell you to write your posts with SEO consciousness but I say no, no, no, not at the expense of good content. At the most, let SEO be an afterthought to consider on your more promotional tweets. Don’t ever let SEO come between you and the quality of your content.

My work is done here. Or did I miss something? Add your favorite SEO tip for Twitter in the comment area.