A link shortener free is an online tool that shrinks long URLs into a shorter, more user-friendly version. Many of these tools also provide tracking and management features.
A shortened URL can be shared anywhere online, including social media, email, or text messages. This helps to keep your brand name in front of people, making it more memorable. It can also improve the click-through rate (CTR) on your content, which can boost your SEO ranking and help you reach more of your audience.
When using a link shortener, you simply enter the original URL into the tool, which then creates a shortened link with a unique identifier. When someone clicks on this shortened link, the service then redirects them to the original long URL. Some services offer additional features, such as password protection or HTTPS, to ensure that shortened links always direct users to the right website and do not expose sensitive information.
Some of the most popular link shorteners include Bitly and TinyURL. Both offer a simple and convenient process, but Bitly’s advanced analytics and management features make it a more versatile option. It also allows you to add a custom back-half to your shortened URL, so you can customize the second half to your own liking, which helps to build brand awareness and increase trust.
Both tools are free to use, but if you want more advanced features, you will need to sign up for a premium plan. You can also purchase a plan that includes unlimited tracked clicks if you plan to use the tool for business purposes.
While there are many options available, it is important to find a link shortener that works for your needs and that will grow with your business. Look for a tool with a good reputation that offers the features you need without overpaying. A free plan may be sufficient for small businesses, while more advanced features are ideal for large businesses or marketers looking to optimize their campaigns.
Another great feature of some link shorteners is the ability to track and analyze your content performance. These tools can provide you with data such as number of clicks, geographic location, and other metrics that can help you make better decisions for your marketing campaigns. Some of these tools can even provide you with customized analytics reports and insights that can help you improve your performance.
Owly is a great option for those who are already using Hootsuite to manage their social media accounts. It is a great way to integrate your account with a link shortener and take advantage of all the benefits that come with it. However, if you are not already using Hootsuite, this service can be quite expensive at $99 per month. Nonetheless, it is worth the price for many marketers who can leverage it to enhance their social media campaigns and drive more traffic to their websites. In addition, shortened links are more aesthetically pleasing and can lead to higher CTR on your posts on Twitter and other social media platforms.