How Writers Use Instagram with Linktr.ee

Excerpt from Social Media for Today's Writer, Bold Vision Books

written by Edie Melson & DiAnn Mills

Since 2017, Instagram has continued to be one of the fasted growing social media networks. The users aren’t just growing in numbers, but the range of users is expanding, making it valuable for all ages and demographics. With the creation of Stories within the app, it has multiple applications for brands as well as individuals who want to be social.

 

So how do writers use Instagram effectively? I’m so glad you asked!

 

Instagram only allows a single link in the profile, but there’s a great work-around for that. We recommend the free version of Linktr.ee (www.Linktr.ee). This site allows you to post a single link to a site like Instagram and then branches into multiple links when clicked. This is a vital part of your Instagram set up because live links are not allowed in the captions for individual posts.

 

Why does this matter?

 

Let’s say a writer wants to share a blog post on Instagram. We post the picture from the post and in the caption, we want to share the link to the post. Instagram won’t allow it. We can type in the characters of the link, but what’s there isn’t clickable or even able to be copied. No one can get to the post from that caption.

 

If, on the other hand, you have the link to your blog in your LinkTr.ee account in your bio, you can add, “Clickable link in bio.” That directs readers to your bio and instantly to your blog.

 

Setting Up Your Free Linktr.ee Account

 

1. Go to www.Linktr.ee and choose the FREE account. I love the paid version, but set up the free to begin with to make sure you like it before you begin paying for it. There will be several questions you’ll need to answer and you’ll need to verify your email account, so check for that email because you won’t be allowed to publish your Linktr.ee until your email is confirmed. 

 

2. Once you’re verified set up, you’ll want to do a little housekeeping. Below is a screenshot of my free linktr.ee account. Across the top are several clickable tabs: LINKS, APPEARANCE, SETTINGS, and PRO.

 

3. The APPEARANCE tab is where you want to go to finish your account set up. You’ll want to set up your profile image (avatar) and come up with a short bio, as well as choose your theme.  

 

4. Now go back to the LINKS tab to begin adding links. 

 

5. Click on ADD NEW LINK (see screenshot below)

 

6. Fill in the two blanks (see screenshot above):

• Title
• URL

7. Now Click the slider button in the upper right corner so it shows up green.Sometimes this happens automatically, sometimes you have to click it manually. If it shows up yellow, click it off, then back on. (See Screenshot below) 

You’ll notice there are three vertical dots on the left of each entry. You can use that area to click and drag the entries into any order you choose.

Now it's your turn. What questions do you have about Linktr.ee or Instagram. Post them in the comments section below!

Don't forget to join the conversation

Blessings,

Edie & DiAnn

If you've found this helpful, take a look at our book, Social Media for Today's Writer. DiAnn Mills and I have packed this volume with all the practical social media help you need to take your online visibility to the next level. 

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Edie Melson is a woman of faith with ink-stained fingers observing life through the lens of her camera. No matter whether she’s talking to writers, entrepreneurs, or readers, her first advice is always “Find your voice, live your story.” As an author, blogger, and speaker she’s encouraged and challenged audiences across the country and around the world. Her numerous books reflect her passion to help others develop the strength of their God-given gifts and apply them to their lives.Connect with her on her website, through Facebook, Twitter and on Instagram.