What is Ow.ly?
Ow.ly is Hootsuite's built-in URL shortener that allows users to efficiently accommodate links in their social media posts. By shortening URLs, Ow.ly helps maintain a clean and professional appearance while also enabling tracking to assess link performance and engagement. This makes it easier for users to monitor the success of their social media strategies without cluttering their captions with lengthy URLs.
What are the main features of Ow.ly?
- Link Shortening: Effortlessly shorten long URLs for a tidier presentation in social media posts.
- Performance Tracking: Monitor how many clicks your links receive and gather data on the subsequent website visits, conversions, and overall engagement.
- Custom Vanity URLs: Create branded and memorable URLs, enhancing brand visibility and credibility.
- In-depth Analytics: Generate comprehensive reports that showcase traffic data from Ow.ly links, including performance insights from major social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
- Integration with Google and Adobe Analytics: Seamlessly connect with major analytics tools to enhance your reporting capabilities.
- User-friendly Interface: Simplified dashboard design makes it easy to create and track short links.
How to use Ow.ly?
To utilize Ow.ly, users must have a Hootsuite account. Within the Hootsuite dashboard, as you compose and plan posts, you can easily add links that will automatically be shortened using the Ow.ly tool. You can also incorporate unique tracking parameters for better performance insights.
Pricing
Ow.ly is a feature included with Hootsuite plans, which offer various pricing tiers:
- Professional Plan: Access for one user at a monthly rate. Includes unlimited post scheduling and various analytics features.
- Team Plan: Designed for three users and includes everything in the Professional Plan, plus advanced tools like "link in bio" and team-based features.
- Enterprise Plan: A custom plan catering to larger teams requiring extensive tools like advanced content curation and automated management features.
Helpful Tips
- Maximize Link Effectiveness: Use custom URLs to enhance brand identity while tracking link performance with unique parameters.
- Analyze Engagement Patterns: Regularly check your Ow.ly analytics to identify which platforms drive more traffic and adjust your social strategy accordingly.
- Integrate with Other Tools: Leverage Hootsuite's extensive capabilities alongside Ow.ly for comprehensive social media management.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is link shortening?
Link shortening is the process of converting lengthy URLs into shorter, more manageable links without losing the original URL destination.
Why should I use Ow.ly to shorten my links?
Ow.ly not only simplifies the appearance of your links but also provides analytics to track performance, giving you deeper insights into your audience's behavior and engagement.
Can I create custom URLs with Ow.ly?
Yes, you can create custom vanity URLs with Ow.ly if you are on the Team plan or higher. This feature allows you to promote your brand more effectively.
Is it difficult to use Ow.ly?
Not at all! Ow.ly is integrated within Hootsuite's user-friendly dashboard, making it easy for anyone to shorten links and track their performance.
Do I need a Hootsuite account to use Ow.ly?
Yes, Ow.ly has been integrated into the Hootsuite dashboard for enhanced user security and functionality. You will need to create a Hootsuite account to access this feature.
Start transforming your social media strategy today with the convenience of Ow.ly and witness an increase in link engagement and performance!