Essential Twitter Tips for New Users

Twitter is where news breaks, links are shared, and memes are created. It’s also a space for casual conversations. Unlike Facebook, Twitter (now X) is public by default, which allows anyone’s content to go viral if it strikes a chord. This openness also lets users interact with journalists, athletes, artists, and public figures in the same space as friends.

Tweets generally appear in real-time, with the most recent ones at the top of your feed. New tweets push older ones down, and if you’ve been away for a while, Twitter might highlight tweets you missed. Otherwise, it’s straightforward—the further you scroll, the older the tweets.

This real-time nature makes X the go-to platform for following live events, sports, TV shows, or breaking news. What makes it unique is that anyone can participate, not just professionals. This has led to a wide range of perspectives being shared and amplified.

Tweets can include links, photos, GIFs, or videos, but if you’re sharing text, you’re limited to 280 characters. This limit encourages concise, to-the-point posts. While it may feel restrictive at first, many users find it forces them to communicate more clearly, and some believe it even improves their writing skills.

For newcomers, figuring out how to use Twitter can feel overwhelming. Deciding who to follow, what to tweet, and understanding X’s features like retweets and replies might be confusing at first. But with a few tips, getting started can lead to a more engaging and rewarding experience.

What is X?

X is a social media platform where users can share short messages, images, videos, polls, and more. Previously known as “tweets,” these posts are now referred to as “posts,” with each one limited to 280 characters. X is commonly used for quick updates, product launches, sharing links, and conducting polls.

By 2022, Twitter (now X) had 229 million daily active users worldwide, making it a key platform for businesses to build an online presence. Even if a business isn’t very active on X, maintaining a profile allows customers to find and engage with the brand.

In 2022, Elon Musk acquired Twitter and rebranded it as X, aligning with his goal to transform it into an “everything app” beyond just a social media platform. This rebranding brought several significant changes:

• Logo: The iconic blue bird was replaced by a simple black and white “X”;
• Naming: “Tweets” are now called “posts,” and “retweets” have become “reposts”;
• Domain: X.com now redirects to the platform, although Twitter.com is still operational;
• Branding issues: The transition has been inconsistent, with some references to Twitter and the bird logo still appearing across the site and app.

The decision to rename Twitter as “X” stems from Musk’s long-standing interest in the letter “X” and his vision of creating a multi-functional app similar to China’s WeChat. However, the name change and lack of clear communication left many users confused about what the future holds for the platform.

While Musk and then-CEO Linda Yaccarino suggested more features were on the horizon, the immediate changes have mostly been cosmetic. Users should anticipate further evolution of the platform, though the specifics are still unclear.

How X is Used

X is a social media platform used by both businesses and individuals to share a wide range of content, from advertisements to personal updates and casual posts. For brands looking to engage effectively with users, it’s important to understand how X works.

Businesses use X to promote their products or services, whether by sharing links to sales, announcing new offerings, or posting about upcoming events. The platform helps brands reach a larger audience organically, making it easier to promote what they have to offer.

Individuals use Twitter for different reasons, such as following favorite athletes or sharing quick thoughts and opinions. Many also follow brands they like, which provides businesses with a direct way to interact with customers and build stronger relationships through regular, valuable content.

To maintain a healthy and engaged audience on X, businesses and individuals alike should regularly evaluate their followers and unfollow inactive Twitter accounts to ensure they’re reaching active users who can interact with their content.

How X Functions

X is a micro-blogging platform designed for short posts, with a character limit of 280. Unlike traditional blog posts, which are often several hundred words long, posts on X are much more concise, often under 50 words.

When a post is published, other users can interact with it by clicking the heart icon to “like” it or using the circular arrow to “repost” and share it with their followers. There’s also an option to “quote” a post, allowing users to add their own comments while sharing the original content.

Users can also leave comments on public posts. This feature makes Twitter an effective tool for building and maintaining customer relationships, especially for brands whose audience is active on the platform.

Understanding X Terminology

As you explore X, you’ll encounter various commonly used terms and shorthand specific to the platform. Understanding these terms will help you use and engage with the platform more effectively.

Hashtags

Hashtags are a key feature of X. They start with the pound symbol (#) and are followed by a keyword, helping link posts to larger conversations on the platform. You can add hashtags to your bio, posts, or use them to search for discussions, topics, or accounts. They’re a great way to reach a wider audience and join in on trending topics or industry-related conversations.

Handles

Your distinct username, which begins with the “@” sign, is your handle on X. It’s how people come across you or see you mentioned in postings. Selecting a straightforward, memorable handle that embodies your own brand or identity makes it easier for users to engage with you on the site.

Hat Tip (HT)

Giving another user credit for information you share is known as a hat tip, or HT. It’s a kind way to acknowledge the source of the content. Although it isn’t always required, HT is a pleasant method to show appreciation for people and cultivate positive connections on X.

Mentions (@)

A mention occurs when your handle appears in a post, alerting you to the mention. Since they draw attention to a particular person or include others in talks, mentions are an important method to interact on X. In the X community, they are helpful for conversations, recognition, and information sharing.

Retweets (RT)

Retweeting is how users share posts from others with their own followers. When you retweet, you can either repost the content as-is or add your commentary. If you choose to comment, your thoughts will appear above the original post, allowing you to provide additional context or share your opinion while still amplifying the original content.

Direct Messages (DM)

DMs, or Direct Messages, offer a private way to communicate with others on X. Unlike public posts, DMs are only visible to the people in the conversation. They allow for more direct and personal communication, whether you’re reaching out to customers, collaborators, or followers. However, DMs are only available if the recipient has this feature enabled on their account.

Threads

A thread is a series of connected posts on X, often used to provide additional information on a specific topic. Since each post on X has a 280-character limit, threads are useful when you need to dive deeper into a subject or explain something that requires more space than a single post allows. Threads help maintain continuity and ensure that all related content stays connected.

Likes

The “like” feature on Twitter is represented by a heart icon. Clicking the heart shows that you support or agree with a post. It’s a quick and easy way to interact with content, showing appreciation or endorsement without leaving a comment. Liking posts also signals to X’s algorithm that you’re interested in similar content.

X Spaces

X Spaces is a feature that allows for live audio conversations on the platform, much like the “Rooms” feature on Instagram. Twitter Spaces enables users to host real-time discussions with their followers. It’s a great tool for starting meaningful conversations, engaging directly with an audience, and increasing brand exposure. Listeners can join, participate, and interact in these audio discussions.

Moments

Moments are curated stories based on X posts that highlight events, trends, or stories happening across the platform. They serve as a way to showcase notable conversations and happenings, allowing users to quickly get a snapshot of key events or topics that are generating buzz on Twitter.

Super Follows

Super Follows is a subscription feature that allows users to offer exclusive content to paying subscribers. This monthly membership model helps creators and influencers monetize their presence on X by providing unique access or personalized interactions with their most dedicated followers. Super Follows offer an additional way for users to engage and support content creators on a deeper level.

To further enhance engagement strategies, creators and businesses can also use tools to track who follows who on Twitter, helping them identify key audience connections and potential influencers to grow their Super Follows base.

Getting Started with X: The Basics

X is a great platform for businesses to share content, promote sales, and engage with their audience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help beginners use Twitter effectively:

1. Setting Up an X Account

To begin using X, the first step is to create your account. The process is straightforward: provide some essential information and choose a display name for your profile. In addition to your display name, you’ll need to select a unique handle. Your handle is how other users will find and mention your company’s account on Twitter.

When choosing your handle, aim for something memorable and easy to type. Avoid adding too many numbers or special characters, as this will make it simpler for others to find your account.

2. Choose a Profile Picture

One of the first things people notice on your X profile is the profile picture, so it’s important to select an image that represents your brand. This could be your company’s logo, a picture of your storefront, or another image that aligns with your business identity. While you don’t need to spend a lot of time on this, it’s important to pick something that fits the brand image you want to project.

3. Create your bio

Your bio is one of the first details visitors will see when they land on your X profile. It should provide a brief overview of your brand and include key information that helps users understand who you are. Consider adding relevant hashtags to boost your visibility, and don’t forget to include your location in the “Location” section if it’s relevant to your business.

4. Add a Link to Your Website

If your goal is to drive traffic from X to your website, be sure to add a direct link to your website on your profile. As your posts generate impressions, interested visitors will be able to quickly find and visit your site. You can add the link in the “Website” section of your profile. Additionally, if you want to share multiple links, consider adding them directly in your bio for easy access.

5. Connect with Others on X

To get the most out of X, it’s important to interact with other users. Start by following people or brands in your industry or those that share your interests. Twitter can suggest users based on your preferences, or you can manually search for specific accounts to follow. Engaging with others through follows and interactions is an effective way to increase your visibility and grow your brand.

Once you’ve built connections, the next step is to regularly share content. Your goal should be to create posts that encourage users to read, reply, and share. As your content is shared across timelines, its reach expands, helping you engage with a broader audience.

Content worth sharing includes blog posts, product videos, event promotions, infographics, or even humorous posts. Tailor your content to fit your brand’s tone and message to ensure it connects with your audience effectively.

6. Post Engaging Content

To fully benefit from X, sharing content is essential. Your goal should be to create posts that encourage users to engage by reading, replying, and sharing. The more your content is shared on timelines, the more it will spread and reach a larger audience.

Content can vary widely based on your brand and messaging. Examples of engaging posts include informative blog articles, product or service videos, promotional links to sales or deals, infographics, images, and humorous content. The type of content you share should align with your brand’s identity and tone, ensuring it connects with your target audience effectively.

7. Personalize Your X Feed

Customizing your Twitter feed allows you to tailor your experience and access the content that matters most to you.

Start by following accounts relevant to your industry, including thought leaders, customers, and even competitors. You can also organize accounts into themed lists, making it easier to focus on specific types of content. X will also recommend topics based on your activity, helping you discover more relevant posts.

Be sure to engage with content by liking, reposting, and commenting, as X’s algorithm will prioritize showing you more of what you interact with. If you come across unwanted posts, you can use the mute or block features to filter them out of your feed.

8. Strengthen Account Security with Two-Factor Authentication

Protecting your X account is essential, especially for businesses. Enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) is one of the easiest and most effective ways to add an extra layer of security.

To activate 2FA on X, go to “Settings and privacy” in the side menu, then select “Security and account access.” From there, click on “Security” and choose “Two-factor authentication.” You can opt for a text message, an authentication app, or a security key as your preferred method.

Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process, which may include verifying your email, entering a code, or linking an authentication app. Once 2FA is enabled, you’ll need both your password and the secondary method for logging in, making your account significantly more secure.

Keep in mind that, as of March 2023, text message 2FA is only available for Twitter Premium users. If you don’t have a premium subscription, it’s best to use an authentication app or security key for added protection.

Search for Accounts on X

Twitter revolves around following users rather than friending them. You have the freedom to follow a wide range of accounts, including people you know, artists, brands, or even parody accounts.

1. During the account setup process, you may have already followed a few accounts. If not, no need to worry, you can follow accounts at any time;
2. To find accounts or topics of interest, use the search bar located in the top right corner. You can search for specific individuals, brands, or interests. For instance, if you’re a fan of a particular artist or sports team, like the Golden State Warriors, search for their profile and follow them to stay updated;
3. As you use X, the platform will begin to suggest accounts for you to follow based on your engagement and activity. These suggestions will appear within your feed (if you’re on the app) or on the side of the screen (if using the desktop version);
4. In the mobile app, you can also use the “Connect” feature, which will recommend accounts based on your previous interactions, such as tweets you’ve liked or posted;
5. Continue following more accounts to customize your feed. While there is no limit to the number of accounts you can follow, you’ll find that following between 100 and 250 accounts provides a balanced flow of content. Gradually expand the list to match your preferences and see how your feed evolves.

Organize with Lists and Follow Hashtags

Many users find X overwhelming due to the constant flow of posts, and it’s easy to miss content if you’re not online when it’s posted. But X isn’t about catching every single post; it’s more like a public chat room where you join conversations in real time.

Twitter uses algorithms to filter your timeline, showing tweets from accounts you interact with the most first, before switching back to a real-time feed. This feature helps you stay updated on important posts even if you’ve been away for a while.

If you want to stay on top of specific content, here are a few tips:

• Check Individual Profiles: If there’s someone you want to follow closely, visit their profile directly to see their most recent tweets;
• Follow Hashtags: Search for event-specific or topic-related hashtags and switch to the “Live” tab to see the latest posts in the conversation;
• Enable Notifications: Turn on push notifications for specific accounts or popular tweets related to your interests. This helps you stay informed without needing to constantly check the app;
• Use TweetDeck or Lists: TweetDeck is a customizable Twitter app that lets you organize your feed by creating private lists. You can also use X’s built-in list feature to group accounts by interest or relevance, ensuring that you catch the posts you care about without being overwhelmed by the rest of your timeline.

Plan Your Brand’s Messaging on X

What kind of message do you want to send out on X? Will your brand focus on marketing campaigns to highlight products and services, or will you provide industry updates and insights? You might decide a combination of both suits your goals best.

Deciding what content to share is a crucial early step for success on Twitter. Although your approach may evolve, starting with a clear plan is essential. Testing different types of content—whether it’s promotions, expert opinions, or interactive posts—will help you determine what works best for your audience.

As you develop your content ideas, keep your brand’s objectives and target audience in mind. Preparing some initial ideas will help shape your early posts, allowing you to adjust based on the engagement and feedback you receive. A well-thought-out, flexible content strategy is key to building strong connections and achieving lasting success on X.

Posting Your First Tweet

Before crafting your first tweet, it’s important to understand how tweets work and the platform’s features.

Step 1: Tweets are capped at 280 characters, which encourages concise and impactful communication. While this might seem limiting, it helps keep messages focused and digestible. If you have more to say on a topic, you can break it down into a series of connected tweets, known as a thread. This allows you to share more detailed thoughts while maintaining a logical flow.

Step 2: To create a thread, start by writing your first tweet. Then click the “+” button in the bottom right corner to add more tweets to the thread. This feature lets you expand on a subject without exceeding the character limit in any single post.

Step 3: Want to enhance your tweet with visuals? You can easily attach photos, videos, polls, or gifs via the compose box. The great thing about adding media is that it doesn’t use up your character count. You can include up to four images or a video under 2 minutes and 20 seconds, while keeping the full 280 characters for your message.

Step 4: When sharing a link in your tweet, remember that the URL will automatically use 23 characters. To keep the post readable, leave a space between your text and the link. This ensures the link doesn’t get mixed in with the rest of the text.

Step 5: Hashtags are a powerful way to connect your tweet to larger discussions. They can be found on the left side of the “Home” tab, and popular ones are clickable, allowing users to explore related posts. Adding relevant hashtags to your tweet can significantly boost its visibility and encourage engagement.

Step 6: Keep Your X Account Active

Establishing a consistent tweeting schedule is essential to maintaining an engaging presence. If visitors see that your last post was months ago, they may lose interest or choose to unfollow.

You don’t need to tweet constantly to stay relevant. Posting just once a week can be effective, as long as you maintain a regular schedule. For optimal engagement, consider tweeting at least every couple of days and mixing up your content. Regular posting not only keeps your profile active but also helps build a stronger connection with your audience.

Step 7. Use Twitter Tools and features

Before you begin your Twitter strategy, make sure to use these helpful tools and features:

• Pin a Tweet: Highlight an important post by pinning it to the top of your profile;
• Get Verified: If eligible, apply for Twitter verification to get the blue badge that shows your account is authentic and notable;
• Bookmarks and Lists: Bookmark tweets to revisit later, and create Lists to organize tweets based on topics;
• Use Twitter Ads: Increase reach by running ads—people spend 26% more time on Twitter ads compared to other platforms;
• Support Causes or Events: Share content related to holidays or causes to balance your self-promotion;
• Incorporate Video: 32% of users watch videos on Twitter—take advantage by sharing video content;
• Analyze Performance: Use Twitter analytics to track content performance and improve your strategy;
• Share Blog Posts: Promote your blog content to engage readers and drive traffic to your site;
• Use a Scheduler: Save time by scheduling tweets in advance using a post scheduler;
• Customer Support: Set up a dedicated support page on Twitter to handle customer service inquiries efficiently.

Utilizing Twitter’s built-in features alongside tools like Twilert can enhance your brand’s engagement and monitoring capabilities. Twilert is a comprehensive Twitter search tool that operates 24/7, allowing you to set up advanced searches using Boolean operators to filter specific users, exclude keywords, and target specific locations or languages.

With Twilert, you can track hashtags, brand mentions, and competitor activities in real time, ensuring you stay informed and responsive.

Best Practices for Using X for Your Business

While getting started on Twitter is easy, using it effectively for your business can be more challenging. Here are some key tips to help you make the most of the platform.

Establish Clear Branding Guidelines

Start by setting up consistent branding guidelines that define how your brand will appear on X. This includes choosing the fonts, colors, tone of voice, and style of images you’ll use in your posts. You can look to your website for inspiration and use tools to manage your digital assets. Consistency across your posts will help build brand recognition and credibility.

Engage Actively with Your Audience

Engagement is crucial to building your presence on X. Create interesting content that encourages your audience to interact, but also be responsive. Take the time to reply to comments, answer questions, and acknowledge customer feedback. Liking and reposting content from users who mention your brand also helps create a connection, building trust and strengthening your relationship with followers.

Monitor Performance

To know if your Twitter strategy is working, track the performance of your posts regularly. Use X’s built-in analytics to monitor impressions, engagement, and follower growth. If some posts aren’t performing well, adjust your strategy by experimenting with different formats or topics. Tracking this data will help you refine your content strategy and maximize results.

Use Trending Topics

Stay updated with trending hashtags and participate in relevant conversations. When you find a trending topic that fits your brand, create meaningful content to contribute. However, be selective—engage only with trends that align with your brand’s values to maintain authenticity.

Utilize X Analytics

Make use of X analytics to dive deeper into your account’s performance. Pay close attention to key metrics like impressions and engagement rates, and use this data to refine your strategy. Experiment with different posting times, formats, and topics to see what works best for your audience. Analytics is a powerful tool to help you refine and improve your social media efforts on Twitter.

Ideal Posting Frequency on X

Determining the right posting frequency on X is key to keeping your audience engaged without overwhelming them.

Although there’s no universal rule, most experts suggest posting between 1-5 times per day for businesses. However, quality is more important than quantity—fewer high-quality posts per week are more effective than constantly pushing low-value content.

Use analytics to track when your audience is most active and schedule posts during those times for maximum engagement. Experiment with different posting frequencies and analyze the results to see what works best for your followers. Maintaining a steady, consistent presence is important—sporadic activity followed by long gaps can harm audience loyalty.

X’s Impact on Modern Social Media Marketing

X has become a key platform for businesses and personal brands, offering significant opportunities for online engagement and brand growth. Its real-time nature makes it ideal for sharing breaking news, participating in live conversations, and providing customer support.

The platform offers businesses a unique way to connect with customers, understand public sentiment, and join industry-relevant discussions. With targeted advertising capabilities and the use of hashtags and trending topics, brands can organically boost their visibility and reach.

X is also a powerful tool for thought leadership, helping individuals and companies build authority through consistent, high-quality content. As X continues to evolve, its role in social media marketing remains essential, offering a dynamic space for brands to foster relationships, drive engagement, and stay at the forefront of fast-paced digital conversations.

Conclusion

Getting started on X may seem overwhelming, but with the right approach, it can be a powerful tool for building your brand, engaging with customers, and growing your online presence. By setting up a well-structured account, posting regularly, and using features like hashtags and analytics, you can connect with your audience and boost your brand’s visibility. Stay consistent, experiment with different types of content, and use tools like Twilert to monitor activity and opportunities. With a thoughtful strategy, Twitter can play a significant role in your overall digital marketing success.