how to dm on twitter or X

Are you wondering how to DM on Twitter or X (formerly known as Twitter)? Whether you’re a business owner networking with clients, a content creator collaborating with brands, or simply someone who wants to engage privately with others, understanding how Direct Messages (DMs) work on Twitter or X is essential. Despite the platform’s real-time and public nature, the DM feature opens a path for more personal conversations. In this guide, we’ll break down how to use DMs step-by-step, explore best practices, and even touch on how to leverage them for professional growth. Let’s dive into how direct messaging can elevate your digital communication strategy.

What Is a DM on Twitter or X?

A DM, short for Direct Message, is X’s private messaging feature. Unlike tweets, which are visible to everyone, DMs allow users to send confidential messages to one another.

These messages can include:

  • Text content
  • Photos and videos
  • GIFs and stickers
  • Links and documents

Knowing how to DM on Twitter or X is crucial for private one-on-one conversations, professional inquiries, or customer service responses.

Why Use Direct Messaging on Twitter or X?

DMs are not just for casual chats. Here’s why users across industries leverage them:

  • Customer Support: Brands use DMs to resolve client issues privately.
  • Networking: Professionals connect and build relationships.
  • Collaboration: Creators and marketers discuss campaigns and ideas privately.
  • Sales Outreach: Businesses reach out to new leads discretely.

Learning how to use DMs effectively can enhance your interaction strategy, especially for brand building and community engagement on X.

How to DM on Twitter or X: Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s walk through the process of sending and receiving messages on X.

1. Open the Twitter or X App

Begin by launching the X app on your mobile device or accessing Twitter.com via desktop.

2. Navigate to the Messages Tab

Look at the navigation bar at the bottom (mobile) or on the sidebar (desktop). Tap or click the envelope icon labeled “Messages.”

3. Tap the New Message Icon

Click the message icon with a “+” sign or a pen/paper icon to start a new DM thread.

4. Search for the User

Enter the handle or name of the user you want to DM. Remember that not all users accept DMs—some restrict messages to followers or people they follow.

5. Compose and Send Your Message

Once inside the message window, type your message. You can also attach media or files. Hit the “Send” button (airplane icon on mobile or arrow icon on desktop).

6. Check for Responses

All replies will appear in your DM inbox. You’ll receive a notification unless muted.

Congratulations! You’ve now learned the basics of how to DM on Twitter or X.

Understanding DM Privacy and Settings

To manage whether others can send you messages, visit:

Settings > Privacy and Safety > Direct Messages

From there, you can enable or disable:

  • Receive messages from everyone
  • Filter low-quality messages
  • Auto-delete spam messages

This is particularly useful if you’re a business account receiving high message volumes or want to prevent spam. 

How to DM on Twitter or X If a User Doesn’t Follow You

If someone hasn’t allowed messages from non-followers, you won’t be able to message them unless they change their settings. In some cases, X may permit a “Request to message” feature, allowing users to approve DMs before reading them.

Tip: If you’re trying to get in touch for business purposes, consider engaging with their public posts first to build rapport.

How to DM Multiple Users on Twitter or X

Want to create a group message? It’s easy:

  1. Open the Messages section.
  2. Tap the new message icon.
  3. Add multiple usernames (up to 50 people).
  4. Compose your message and hit send.

Note: Everyone in the group chat can see each other’s replies.

Using DMs to Grow Your Business or Brand on X

Direct messaging isn’t just for casual use. Here’s how you can utilize it as a growth tool:

1. Customer Service

Encourage your customers to DM you for support. Faster, one-on-one responses can lead to increased customer satisfaction.

2. Networking and Collaboration

DMs can help you connect with influencers, creators, or potential collaborators.

3. Lead Generation

Use DMs tactfully to introduce your services or thank people for engaging with your tweets. Don’t spam; personalize your outreach for the best results.

 

Do’s and Don’ts of DM Etiquette

Now that you know how to DM on Twitter or X, follow these best practices:

Do:

  • Be respectful and concise.
  • Personalize your messages.
  • Respond promptly.
  • Use emojis sparingly to maintain a professional tone.

Don’t:

  • Send mass copy-paste promotions—it can be seen as spam.
  • Overuse DMs for sales without context.
  • Ignore permission settings.

Maintaining proper DM etiquette goes a long way in building trust and professionalism, especially when you’re using social platforms for business.

DM Hacks Every Pro Should Know

Want to take your DM game to the next level? Try these expert tips:

  • Use saved replies: For FAQs and standard messages.
  • Set up message links: Create a link that leads users directly to your DM inbox.
  • Integrate with productivity tools: Use platforms like ViralPulseAI to automate outreach and response analysis. 
  • Track open rates: Gauge audience engagement with DM campaigns.

With ViralPulseAI, you can also schedule and analyze the performance of your social messages with ease. This tool is ideal for content creators, businesses, and professionals who want to streamline their communication and maximize results.

How to Delete and Manage Your Twitter or X DMs

Need to clean up your inbox or remove a DM? Here’s how:

Deleting DMs:

  1. Go to the conversation.
  2. Long press (mobile) or hover over the specific message (desktop).
  3. Click or tap “Delete Message” or “Remove.”

Note:

Deleting a message only removes it from your end; the recipient still sees it unless they delete it too.

Troubleshooting: Common DM Issues

Sometimes, you may run into issues. Here are quick solutions:

  • Can’t send a DM? The user may not follow you, or their settings don’t permit DMs.
  • Messages aren’t delivering? Check your internet connection or try clearing the app cache.
  • Receiving spam? Set filters or report the sender.

Remember to regularly update the X app to access the latest features and fixes.

Final Thoughts: Start Mastering DMs on Twitter or X

By now, you should have a well-rounded understanding of how to DM on Twitter or X. Whether you’re aiming to communicate more effectively, support your customers,

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