How to Use Threads: A Guide to Getting Started and Building a Following

How to use Threads effectively, from starting your account to growing a dedicated following.

With its constant improvement and regular addition of new features, Instagram’s companion app, Threads, is speedily, steadily growing its user base. 

In April 2024, almost a year on from its rocketship release, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg shared that the Meta-owned platform now has more than 150 million active users.

That’s pretty impressive, but perhaps what’s especially notable is that the social media platform now has more active users in the U.S. daily than Twitter/X and Business Insider reports. 

Despite the many Twitter alternatives out there, it’s Threads that seems to be filling the void left by ‘old Twitter’ for many fans of the fast-paced, text-heavy platform.  

Instagram Threads is emerging as a class all on its own when it comes to community building on social media and is a great way to connect with fans and customers. Creators and marketers who ignore the platform are missing a trick. 

If you’re unsure about whether or not to join Threads, I hear you — there are so many social networks to choose from. Surely adding another one into the mix, especially one as new as Threads, is going to drain your time without delivering much return on investment? 

I’d argue the opposite — Threads is the platform you should be carving out a space on right now. For one thing, it’s a far lower lift than most other networks, and it's really easy to repurpose your content from elsewhere.

For another, it may soon become a powerhouse when it comes to boosting reach and visibility, thanks to its close partnership with Instagram and the fact that it connects to the Fediverse (don’t worry, we’ll get into all that below). 

Bonus: Threads is also incredibly fun. 

If you’re late to the Instagram Threads party, fear not — we’re just getting started. This guide will help you understand how to use Threads effectively, from starting your account to growing a dedicated following.

What is Threads?

Threads is a new text-based app by Instagram designed for “sharing text updates and joining public conversations,” according to Meta. 

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