Over the past few weeks, you might have noticed that some of Australia’s 2,500,000 Twitter profiles have looked a bit … well, different. More like Google+ or Facebook with Twitter’s new profile page focusing on images and popular tweets. In a blog post titled Coming soon: a whole new you, in your Twitter profile, Twitter explains that the redesign will allow users to express who they are more effectively.

So what’s new about the new you? The new Twitter profile lets you use a larger profile photo, customise your header, show off your best Tweets and more. Here are main features and some tips on how to take advantage of this Twitter refresh in your social media strategy:

• FEATURE 1 – Instead of the header photos located behind the profile picture, they are located at the top and fill the length of the screen.  This new size is 1500 x 500 pixels, which is important to remember when recreating a quality profile header.

• FEATURE 2 – The profile picture is now much larger for new profiles (a big plus) at 400 x 400 pixels. Again, make sure your image is properly formatted for the new layout. Again, make sure your image is properly formatted for the new layout.

• FEATURE 4 – Most popular Tweets (retweets, Favourites, etc) will appear slightly larger than the rest, so your best content is easy to find. The new design prominently displays a Favorites tab in the main navigation. Use Fav’s as social proof for your brand message. Favorite the recommendations, testimonies, and positive blurbs from your customers and fans, and transform your Favorites tab into a board of brand high fives.

• FEATURE 5 – You can also pin tweets to the top of your page to create the best possible impression. By pinning a tweet to the top of your profile, you can say that this quip, photo, or link shows who you really are instead of just what you posted today. Pin a tweet that drives emotion, for example one that makes profile visitors feel happy-something positive, funny, or delightful. You might start a chain reaction of sharing.

• FEATURE 6 – Choose which timeline to view when checking out other profiles. Select from these options: Tweets, Tweets with photos/videos, or Tweets and replies. TIP: Tweets with photos get 18 percent more clicks and 150 percent more retweets. People who view your profile now have easier access to the visual content that you post, so keep your photos/videos fresh because it’s now top of mind for everyone.

If you haven’t seen the new look yet, you’ll very likely see your profile page updated in the coming weeks. If you want a headstart on your competitors, update your profile today. Go to “https://about.twitter.com/products/new-profiles” New Twitter Profile and click on the ‘Get it now’ button.

How will you use the new Twitter profiles to promote  your business?