Twitter is a popular social networking site that some users swear by, while others observe more with disdain or confusion. For freelance writers in particular, it can be another way to promote their work, as well as interact with other freelancers and find support and help when they need it.
Create a Twitter Account
When signing up for a Twitter account, writers should consider exactly what purpose the account will serve. If the account is truly to be used to promote the writer's freelancing career, he should set up his profile with this in mind. This includes choosing a Twitter name that is on brand with the writer's name and/or niche in the freelance writing world. For example, a food writer named Josie Smith who publishes restaurant reviews might choose a name like Josie_Eats. A travel writer who is solely focused on helping tourists around Cuba might choose the name CubaTourGuide.
Follow Other Freelance Writers
The easiest way for a Twitter user to get followers is to first follow others. However, it's a bad idea to start mass-following anyone on Twitter. In the beginning, writers might have to spend a little extra time finding other freelance writers and editors whom have a Twitter account. Use Twitter's "Find People" search function to find specific writers.
Tweet Actively
One of the best things about Twitter is that, once the account is set up, little work is required to maintain your account and be active. Typing and sending a tweet only takes seconds, and getting involved with chats is simple and can help writers make a connection with others they may not have met otherwise. New users should begin with a few tweets a day, and avoid sending a link to their latest published article or blog post with each link, which can seem to other followers like spamming.
Interact with other Twitter Users
Every Twitter account has a link in the pane on the right on which users can filter tweets and only see tweets directed at them. If someone tweets to a writer to ask for help, make a suggestion or just say hello, it's best to reply back with a tweet. By really getting involved on Twitter, users will soon find themselves in a small but helpful community that provides a support group that writers need in a difficult workplace.
More About Social Networking for Freelance Writers
Interested in learning more about using social networks? Check out these articles:
How to Use Social Networks to Promote Freelance Writing
How Facebook Can Benefit Writers
Michelle Schusterman - Michelle is a musician and freelance writer just trying to see the world while doing what she loves for a living. After graduating from ...
