How (And Why You Should!) Tag Sources on Social Media

Each time an article publishes, I go through a routine. I share it out on my social media channels, add it to my online writing portfolio and send a quick note of thanks to any sources or experts mentioned in the article.

Recently one of my sources thanked me for the email, and asked what I mean by “tagging” on social media.

I was taken back.

Sometimes I forget that some of this online speak isn’t fluid for everyone who has an email account.

As a writer, I find that tagging sources helps boost engagement on social media. It increases traffic for both the writer and the source, and usually sparks a conversation or two.

But, what is tagging? And what is engagement?

Tagging is simply adding the source’s social media name, or handle, to your post so that they take note of your post and get some well-deserved recognition for adding expert insight to your piece. Basically, it’s giving them a shout out.

Engagement, or interacting with others online, usually follows once you tag someone on social media. You might get a comment, like or share.

Here’s an example from my Twitter account. I tweeted an article that I wrote about finding sources for your writing. In my initial tweet, I tagged my three sources: Source Sleuth, Help a Reporter Out and SourceBottle.

That same day SourceBottle retweeted the post. It was then picked up by Bec Derrington and Influencer Hub, who also chose to retweet the post. Those posts then gained a few favorites and a retweet.

Just by tagging my sources in one post, my article was able to reach more people through the extra sharing. Neat, right?

And, tagging can also work in the other direction. If you’re tagged in a post, be sure to acknowledge it and reply. Why? It’s courteous and amplifies your presence on social media!

Here are a few examples from Twitter.

Above, Carol Leggett PR thanked me and Tom’s of Maine for sharing tips from one of her clients in an article.

Below, Organic Infusions tagged me when promoting an article that I wrote, which featured their founder.

Using tags on your social media networks does take a little extra time and effort. But, isn’t that what being social is all about? Why be online if you’re just shouting at everyone and not trying to interact?

Tell me in the comments below if you use tagging and why! Let’s chat!