Twitter for Freelance Writers
October 16, 2009 by Deb Ng
Filed under Freelance Writing
This isn’t the first time we’re discussing Twitter. In the past we discussed why freelance writers need to embrace Twitter and, also, people to follow on Twitter. We’ve been discussing the importance of social media for a couple of years now. Contrary to popular belief, Twitter isn’t social media. It’s a microblogging site. It’s simply one of a number of online social media tools. Though many traditional writers have been reluctant to embrace Twitter, I’ve been using it for years with much success. Case in point: A few days ago, a tweet from Media Bistro sent several thousands of readers to this blog. (Hi new people, make yourselves at home and jump in any time!). This same Tweet was re-tweeted by over a dozen @MediaBistro follwers, creating even more traffic. Twitter isn’t only important for it’s retweet value though.
Here are a few of the ways Twitter benefits freelance writers:
- Many freelance writing jobs are Tweeted over Twitter.
- Many freelance writers are part of Twitter leading to some terrific networking opportunities.
- People who hire writers are on Twitter.
- Fellow writers, friends and followers Tweet and Re-Treet links to amazing blog posts.
- Links to articles and resources are Tweeted on a regular basis.
How freelance writers use Twitter:
- Build relationships with other freelancers
- Follow freelance writers for tips and advice
- Share links (without being spammy) to articles and blog posts
- Build relationships with potential clients
- Find freelance writing jobs using Twitter search
How are you using Twitter to advance your career?
Deb:
Thanks for posting these tips. I’ll add one: you can add a Twitter feed to your blog or to update your Facebook status message, extending your reach to people who don’t use Twitter.
Mark
I just got a really fab blogging job from someone I follow on Twitter, they Tweeted about the opening and I sent them my info:-) They offered me the job a couple days later.
I’ve just gotten on board because I have a book and I’m searching for agents and yes, I wish I had jumped in earlier. I was one of those who didn’t see the point and resisted but now I see Twitter is where the party is for writers!
I have also found Twitter to be valuable as a marketing tool for my writing business. I have found one repeat customer, an owner of a newswire service. She saw my tweets and contacted me to do several pieces for her clients. I have used Twitter to post articles of mine that have been published on Associated Content and eHow. I love to sell giftbaskets and use Twitter to post specials that I run from time to time.
I’m still figuring out how to use twitter. I’m getting better. In the past I was disappointed because I lost followers. I have to revisit my theme. Thanks Deb.
Twitter is a great place for finding freelance writing jobs, that’s for sure. I also find it to be a good branding tool. If you’re active enough–and as long as you don’t look annoying nor spammy–it may help potential clients remember you.
However, I’m not that active at Twitter. While I acknowledge its advantages, I tend to favour other methods when I look for work.