Twitter for Baristas, Part Two

by

Editorial Policy

Published on

Last updated on

[I]n July we discussed the vital conversations happening about coffee on Twitter, and how baristas can get the most out of this social networking tool. Emily McIntyre, barista and beverage writer, offered some advice on using the platform to your advantage. Here we elaborate on the ways baristas can get more involved in coffee, and further their careers with help from a few well-placed tweets.

Networking
While followers are great, quality of interaction is imperative. Emily suggests focusing on relationships, not numbers of followers, a challenge worth the rewards. Making friends on Twitter might seem artificial, but the more conversations you engage in on this platform, the more recognizable your name will be later on, as you shake dozens of hands at a trade show, a latte art throwdown, or from behind the bar.

Meeting people is one of the keys to success, for pretty much any industry. “When done well, Twitter can help a barista establish his or her professional network,” says Emily. Especially when “the large networking events are too far away or it costs too much to attend, since career advancement is often based on friendships formed in the industry.”

Consider your name to be synonymous with your voice on Twitter. If that voice is interesting and intelligent, people will be excited to know you and help you along your professional path.

Employment
Once you’ve established credibility and relationships via Twitter, you can leverage that worth into potential job offers. If there is a position you’re eyeing, start by keeping a close eye on the company’s Twitter and be involved in their discussions. If you’re in the market for a new job or just browsing, Twitter is a great way to keep tabs on which companies are expanding, merging, and potentially hiring. Sometimes job postings go up on Twitter before they go up anywhere else. Spending a few minutes a day reading your feed could pay off big time, especially if you’ve already carefully cultivated a strong presence and distinct voice.

—Regan Crisp is Fresh Cup’s associate editor.

Share This Article

Regan Crisp

Join 7,000+ coffee pros and get top stories, deals, and other industry goodies in your inbox each week.

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.


Other Articles You May Like

What’s the Deal with Mushroom Coffee?

Many brands are launching new products pairing mushrooms and coffee. A look at science and history reveals what’s driving this pairing.
by Leah Bowman | September 20, 2023

What You Need to Know About Barista Certification Programs 

Barista certification programs promise to teach learners new skills and can help with career advancement. But do they fulfill that promise? 
by Valorie Clark | July 21, 2023

The Cup In Hand: How Shape and Design Affect Coffee Drinking

The shape, weight, and feel of a cup can have a significant impact on the way you experience the flavor of coffee.
by Mikey Rinaldo | March 22, 2023

The Challenges of Coffee Certifications Go Beyond The Retail Shelf

Coffee certifications can be a valuable tool for farmers and roasters—but can be cost-prohibitive and difficult to navigate. We explore the benefits and challenges of certification programs before a coffee ever reaches the shelf.
by Anne Mercer | February 24, 2023