Bloggers should have a personal Twitter account. I’ve encountered a few bloggers who have an aversion to the social network because they haven’t discovered how to utilize it to their benefit. Readers and followers often want to connect with the person behind the blog. On Twitter, you may be able to develop deeper relationships. That’s what it’s all about. The goal is, of course, to increase interest in what you post on your blog. 

If you’re not sure how, exactly, to start conversations, here are 8 things every blogger can tweet about. 

Personal news. Share the major events of your offline line. People want to hear about engagements, weddings, births and special occasions. Share as much as you feel comfortable with. People want to feel like they know you. You’ll also likely build a connection to a follower who has experienced something similar. 

Mistakes and lessons. Sharing mistakes and lessons they taught you is a sign of growth not weakness. Try a “What I Learned This Week” tweet. 

Answers to Questions. Sign up for site like Ask.FM or Formspring and allow followers to ask you questions. 

Links to articles. Share a mix of your own articles and others. Include your opinion of the piece, or tweet about what inspired you to write it. 

Pictures. Pictures are powerful. If you can, create an Instagram account. Share pictures of people, places, and things that catch your attention. The images you choose to share say just as much about you as the words you tweet. 

Thoughts on a book you’re reading. As you’re reading an engaging book, share your thoughts. If there’s an interesting tidbit of wisdom, share it. This not only shows you read (a major plus), but it can enhance your reputation. 

Fun purchases. Share your recent purchases. Music, movies, books, and clothing can stir up comments and conversations from those who have similar tastes. 

Quotes. People love quotes. Share your favorites, and they’ll be sure to get plenty of retweets. 

If you were puzzled as to how to use Twitter in a way that will maximize engagement and interest in your blog, hopefully this list is a good starting point. The key to Tweeting effectively is, of course, authenticity. Conversations should be real and organic.

A note of caution. Be wise with your social media time. There’s a thin line between being sociable and being wasteful on social networks. 

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Kimberly N. Foster is the founder of Black Girls Blogging and Editor of For Harriet. Email or Tweet her.