Twitter is just a place for me to put entertaining things and doesn't count for screening. I prefer the initial email to contain 2 references and any additional information you would like to include. I'm always impressed when gentlemen include their references or other screening method info in the first email because it tells me they are legitimate, know the process, and efficient(I'm going to ask before the first date anyways). If you state your intent, which could range from pre-screening to the date/time you request to meet, it will save you the unnecessary back and forth. If your schedule is spontaneous, I highly recommend pre-screening as I'm very accommodating of late requests if this formality is addressed. If you're completely new to the hobby there are other ways to verify than references but they take a bit more time.  
 Now that I've said some positives, here is one of my pet peeves: Receiving a text from an unknown number that says "hi", "hello", or some other ambiguous generality. I'm not a cryptologist, and a message with no mention of intent leaves me awkwardly unsure how to respond. Most of the time I don't. If you call, please do leave a voicemail.  
   
  YMMV, but hope this was is helpful!

If providers are using  Twitter or  other social media,  how does  a hobbyist  begin initial contact with a specific  provider?  Serious  question hoping for serious  responses.