How to Optimise Your X (Twitter) Profile: Name, Bio, Header and Pinned Post
· 2 min read
When someone sees you in replies or recommendations on X and taps your profile, you have a few seconds. Here's how to set up every profile field to make the most of them.
Most new followers on X come from people who see you in a reply, a quote or recommendations and tap through to your profile. Your profile is the page that turns that visitor into a follower, so every field should serve a purpose.
Identity fields
Display name
The display name (up to 50 characters) is taken into account in search. You can add a short specialism next to your name: "Elif Kaya | E-commerce". Filling it with emojis hurts readability.
Username
The username is up to 15 characters. Keeping it short, easy to say and the same as on other platforms helps people find the right account.
Bio: 160 characters
Answer three questions in your bio: what do you post about, who is it for and why should people follow? Example: "Email marketing for small businesses · Practical weekly tips · Free templates ↓". Fill in the location and website fields too; the website field lets you add a link without using bio space.
Images
Profile photo
The recommended size is 400×400 pixels, and the image is shown in a circle. Use a clear photo of your face for a personal account and a simple logo for a brand account.
Header image
The recommended size is 1500×500 pixels. The header is a good place to explain what you do or promote a current campaign. Remember that edges are cropped on mobile and the profile photo covers the bottom-left corner.
Pinned post
The post you pin to the top of your profile is the first content visitors see. It should be an introduction to who you are, your best-performing post or your most valuable resource. Update it when a campaign ends.
A profile alone isn't enough
The profile convinces visitors; consistent, regular content is what brings them. For that, you can build a 90-day content calendar for X and read how engagement works in the X algorithm and engagement.
How Socitr can help
For profile images, a header and a consistent visual style, take a look at the X profile branding kit. You can assess your account with the free Account Health Check. More products are in the X category.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many characters can an X bio have?
The bio is limited to 160 characters. The website and location are entered in separate fields and don't count towards this limit.
Will I lose followers if I change my username?
No, your followers stay. However, links and mentions using your old username no longer point to you, so don't change it often.
Does adding keywords to my profile help?
Topic words in your display name and bio help you show up in X search. Use them naturally within a sentence.