Are looking for ways to build your presence on Mastodon? Maybe you've moved from Twitter, or you're simply interested in trying out the federated social media platform.

Here are some tips that can help you get started and grow your following on Mastodon.

1. Join the Right Server

If you're going to have a large following on Mastodon, it's important to start on the right foot. The server you're in goes a long way in determining the number of users that see your content as well as how fast you can grow your follower count.

Of course, joining the right server isn't all about the number of users (important as it is). A large server isn't always better than a smaller one, especially if it's not the right fit for you and your interests.

The two factors to consider when choosing a server are the size and the community. You want to find a server that has enough users to get your posts seen, but you should also look for one with a community that shares your interests and values.

Check out the Mastodon Instance list for all your options, read about what each one offers, and join the one that best fits your needs.

2. Participate in Conversations

One of the best ways to build a presence on Mastodon is to take part in conversations happening around you. Take some time to explore hashtags, browse other users' posts and engage with them by liking, commenting, or re-tooting (Mastodon's version of retweeting).

Engaging with other users' content will show your presence and help you find other like-minded people that could become part of your following. Unlike most other social networks where you can promote a post or handle to get followers, Mastodon relies heavily on organic interactions. This makes engaging with others even more important.

3. Use a Detailed Bio

Skip this if you're Eugen Rochko. But for the rest of us, having a detailed bio is key. When people are deciding whether to follow you, they'll use your bio as a way of determining how interesting you might be.

Include relevant keywords related to your interests and a short but interesting description of yourself. If people can get a quick overview of what you're about and how often you post, they'll be more likely to follow you.

You can also take advantage of the links feature to link to your other social media profiles, website, or blog so that people can find out more about you.

4. Use Photos That Represent You

An image can say more than a thousand words, and that's why it's important to use pictures that represent you. Preferably one that also matches your bio.

This doesn't mean you should use a picture of your face, if that's not something you're comfortable with. You can use an avatar, a logo, or any other image that conveys your interests and what you stand for. You can use an online profile picture maker to create something unique and memorable.

The same rule applies to your cover image. Try to find something that's relevant and stands out, but also looks nice.

5. Share Content Relevant to Your Interests

This should go without saying, but it's still worth mentioning. If you want to build a following on Mastodon, you need to actually post content. The content you share will determine the audience you attract, so it's important to focus on topics that interest you and your followers.

A quick look at the posts of some of the more successful Mastodon accounts will give you an idea of what content does well on the platform. Choose popular topics that overlap with your interests. Also, don't be afraid to experiment with new content types from time to time.

Beyond just sharing content, you want to do your best to be consistent with your posting schedule. Establishing a routine will help you stay on track and keep current followers engaged while attracting more.

6. Connect With Your Existing Twitter Followers

If you're coming from Twitter, chances are you have an existing network of followers at your disposal. Don't let this opportunity go to waste. Reach out to your existing followers and let them know you're on Mastodon. This will give you a head start in building an audience.

You can also tweet out your Mastodon handle and ask followers to join you. This is especially useful if you're just starting out on Mastodon and don't have many followers yet. It also helps if you're transitioning away from Twitter for good, as this will bring some of your old fans with you.

If you're active on other social networks, you can also use those to spread the word about your new presence on Mastodon there too.

7. Use Hashtags

Hashtags are important on most social platforms, but they're especially useful for Mastodon. Hashtags eliminate the server restriction and allow you to reach a broader audience.

With the right hashtags, you can reach users interested in the topics you're discussing across the Mastodon Fediverse. This is an excellent way to reach new people and make your posts more visible. With hashtags, more is not always better. Use the relevant ones, but try to keep it to a minimum. Too many hashtags can be distracting and take away from your post.

8. Work on Retaining Your Followers

Now that you've established a presence on Mastodon and gained some followers, it's time to focus on keeping them. What do followers get out of following you? What makes them want to stay?

You don't have to be a guru or an expert. The key here is to continue providing value. Keep posting content that your followers will find interesting and engage with them. Don't just post and run, take the time to comment and like other people's posts. This helps create a sense of connection and keeps your followers around for the long haul.

Grow Your Mastodon Following

Building a following on Mastodon takes time and dedication, but it's definitely possible. With the right strategy in place, you can grow your presence in no time. From choosing the right profile image to connecting with existing followers and using hashtags, these tips will help you get started on the right foot.