Twitter for Authors
And we are back today with another “For Authors” post on social media. Last week, I discussed why Facebook isn’t all that great when it comes to being an author. Facebook is still a pay-to-play platform, so right out of the gate, your hands are tied. I hate to be the one to break the bad news, but when it comes to Twitter for Authors, the outlook isn’t much better.
Twitter, unfortunately, will probably not be around for much longer. Twitter has had issues with bullying on its platform and the growth is almost nonexistent. The company is going to have to do a complete 180 to stick around long-term. Now, that being said, Twitter is still a major platform for now.
So let’s talk about some ways to build an audience on Twitter.
1. #Hashtags
Hashtags originated on Twitter, and they’re still great for finding new readers and fans. And people to connect with. Some popular ones? #amreading, #amwriting, #amediting, depending on who you’re talking with. Once a month or so, go snooping on a favorite hashtag to see what’s going on. Don’t be afraid to follow people in your hashtag and make some friends!
I’ve found a few good books to read by stalking the #amreading hashtag, so I’m always looking for more books to find!
Related: Twitter Hashtags for Writers
2. Be Spontaneous
If there is one social media platform that Laura Teagan gets to be a little looser and fun, it’s Twitter. Due to the super fast nature of Twitter, I don’t focus on it nearly as much as I should. While looking at other authors for inspiration on how they use Twitter, not a lot have strategies. So let your strategy be to be spontaneous. Share frustrating moments in your writing or over a book you’re currently reading. Bonus points for every gif you include in a tweet because Twitter loves a good gif.
3. Just Don’t Forget to Remind People That You Write Books
While Twitter is definitely a place you can have fun, don’t forget as an author you need to occasionally remind people to read your books. Share quotes or share moments when you’re proud of your writing. If you’ve published your book, be sure to include a link to it in your bio! The quotes I share on Facebook and Instagram once a week are also prescheduled to go live on Twitter. Once a week isn’t gonna kill anyone to remind them you write books.
Related: Hash-tagging Your Book
Looking to grow Twitter as an author? Here's what you need to know. Click To Tweet4. Participate in Twitter Chats
I’ve really only found Twitter chats in regards to writers, and while writers aren’t always your audience, it’s good to connect with them, too. I don’t do a lot of Twitter Chats myself (because I always forget), but two that are really great are #StorySocial (Wednesday nights at 9 PM EST) and #storycrafter (Sunday afternoon at 3pm EST). The ladies who host these chats are fantastic and you’ll learn a lot.
5. Remember, Be a Reader on Twitter
When you’re an author on Twitter or any social media site, you want to find readers. They’re going to be your audience and also, you’ll make new friends. Think of what you want to see on your Twitter feed. Have fun, and enjoy all the books!