X vs. BlueSky vs. LinkedIn- Which Platform Helps Writers the Most?
What do they do best?
The closest I could find, X (formerly Twitter) has an estimated 550 million users worldwide, with over 106 million in the United States.
It’s important to note that these figures represent active users; the total number of actual accounts, including inactive ones, is likely higher, but specific numbers not publicly disclosed.
BlueSky, Truth Social, and Linkedin, are also cometitors in the social media department. BlueSky has over 30 million users. Truth Social has approximately 6.3 million active users. LinkedIn has over 900 million members worldwide.
Of course, user statistics can vary between sources and are always subject to change as platforms grow or shrink and evolve.
Each platform offers different opportunities for writers to engage and gain visibility. I cannot get much traction on X, at all, even among writers. Here’s a breakdown of where you might have better participation than I have had on X.
1. LinkedIn is best for professional networking and possibly long-form content.
LinkedIn articles can be published, even as full-length articles directly on the platform, and they can gain traction in professional circles.
LinkedIn groups are good for writing-related groups where members discuss publishing, freelancing, and marketing books.
The newsletter feature allows you to create a LinkedIn newsletter, which can attract subscribers over time.
It’s best for thought and idea leadership, nonfiction, and professional engagement.
2. BlueSky is decentralized, growing, and writer-friendly
Many indie writers and journalists are moving to Bluesky. Posts (are called “skeets”) can include links to your work.
There is more engagement from many niche communities, especially if you find the right audience.
It is best for engaging with early adopters, niche networking, and tech-savvy audiences.
3. Truth Social is primarily political, with a limited writer/user community
This one does not have a strong presence for general writers, and is mostly used for political and conservative commentary. If your content aligns with trending discussions there, it could gain traction.
It’s Best For political content, commentary, or news-style writing.
4. Medium (Alternative to X?) is still strong for writers, despite the recent changes
Publications can get you more exposure with larger audiences.
Curation by Medium promotes your article, can bring in steady traffic.
Partner Program lets writers earn money based on engagement.
It’s Best for blogging, storytelling, and essay-style content.
5. Substack Notes (If you want short-form engagement)
Substack Notes are designed for short updates (like X). If you have a Substack newsletter, Notes can help drive engagement with your audience, more engagement from fellow writers than X. Medium is great for writer engagement, or Substack Notes if your audience is already there.
It’s best for building a reader community, engaging with writers, and publishing short posts.
Which One Should You Try?
If X isn’t working for you any better than it seems it is for me, I’d suggest trying another. Shop around.
Choosing the right social media platform can be a game-changer for many writers. With so many options, from the fast-moving world of X (formerly Twitter) to the professional networks on LinkedIn and the emerging opportunities on Bluesky, it’s crucial to understand which platform best serves a writer’s goals.
X (Formerly Twitter)
Strengths- Fast-paced, real-time conversations, large writing communities (#WritingCommunity, #AmWriting, etc.)
There is potential for virality and discoverability. It’s easy to interact with editors, publishers, and fellow writers.
Weaknesses- Declining engagement due to algorithm changes. More noise and distractions compared to other platforms.
BlueSky
Strengths-It’s a more intimate, writer-friendly community, with less algorithm manipulation, allowing for organic reach.
A fresh start here can have less competition than X. It feels like early Twitter, making it easier to connect with others.
Weaknesses- It’s still invite-only, limiting audience growth and, therefore, a smaller user base compared to X and LinkedIn.
It’s unclear what the long-term impact and monetization potential is.
Best for- Writers looking for a tight-knit, social space with organic engagement and fewer distractions.
LinkedIn
Strengths- It’s ideal for professional networking and showcasing expertise, great for nonfiction, freelance, and business writers. Its algorithm favors longer-form content, making it easier to share insights.
It has opportunities to connect with clients, publishers, and literary agents.
Weaknesses- It’s less casual and interactive compared to X and Bluesky, and can feel overly corporate or sales-driven. Engagement takes a long time to build without consistent posting. I always got a lot of sales solicitations.
It’s best for writers focusing on business, freelance work, or networking with industry professionals.
Final Thoughts
Each platform serves different purposes.
If you want fast engagement and broad visibility, X is still a strong option. If you want a smaller, more organic writing community, Bluesky may be worth exploring.
If you’re looking for professional connections or freelance work, LinkedIn is the best choice.
Ultimately, the best platform is the one where you feel most comfortable and engaged. Writers may benefit from using a combination of these platforms to maximize their reach and opportunities.
-thanks!
ps. If you enjoy, or think you would enjoy writing short stories, I have put together a 39-page how-to tool kit of resources if you want to join our community. You can find it here.