What is a URL Shortener?
A URL shortener is an application that converts a regular website URL into a condensed version that is usually between 10 and 20 characters long. Free services such as Bitly and TinyURL allow you to create a shortened url at no charge. But what are the benefits of doing this?
Attractiveness
It’s no secret that shortened URLs just look better and leave room for more content per post. They blend in nicely with your content while long links look clunky and unprofessional. Studies even show that abbreviated links are more likely to be shared on social media than long links!
Data Tracking
Most URL shortners come with tracking analytics needed for analyzing social campaigns. Shortened URLs can be tracked in real-time, with information on audience demographics, engagement rate, and click-through rate available instantly. Other available metrics may include time and date the link was clicked, which channel it was viewed from, and from what type of device.
Bitly, for example, allows registered users access to stats on any link ever shortened using their service. Using this data, it’s simple to gauge the popularity of individual posts or your entire campaign.