If you’re time poor [aren’t we all] it can be tempting to connect your social media accounts so that when you post on your Instagram or Facebook – it will simultaneously post to your Twitter account. Whilst this saves you time and energy – there are some cons to be aware of before setting up these connections:

Different strokes for different folks

Twitter isn’t Facebook or Instagram – they are all very different social platforms with different communities, and preferences. For example, Facebook users tend to get annoyed with hashtags, where as it is expected on Twitter. Your engagement levels won’t be as high if you don’t write your messages specifically for the audience receiving it.

Message length

If you message is longer than the designated 140 characters, Twitter will show the beginning of your message, then provide a .fb/ link to the origin of the message. This can mean the sentiment and focus of your message isn’t carried across all platforms.

Images impact lost

If shared from another platform, images will not show within the Twitter Timeline, they will appear as a link to the original source or ‘view photo’ click through.

Double up

If you connect all of your social media platforms, tweets can appear twice - which doesn’t look good over on Twitter.

Recommendation:

If you are conscious of these downfalls and still interested in connecting them up here is my recommendation...

I suggest you connect your social media accounts to ONE platform and use it as a base for your posts - this will help avoid the double up issue addresses above.

I personally love Instagram, so it is my go to. Here’s how to link your Facebook & Twitter to your Instagram, so that whenever you upload and share a new image on Instagram, it is shared ONCE to Facebook, and ONCE to Twitter.

Remember though, if it goes over the designated length if will appear with a link. Users will need to click through to see the full message and image. On the plus side, this can be a great way to direct Twitter followers to follow your Instagram too.

HOW: TECH

To share photos from Instagram to Facebook/Twitter

Go to Instagram on your mobile
Go to your profile and then tap
Tap Share Settings
Tap Facebook/Twitter and then link your accounts by providing your login info
Voila

Now, just before you share a photo on Instagram select “Facebook” & “Twitter” and your message will be dispersed.

To share updated from Facebook to Twitter

Go to this link
Select the page you wish to connect
Authorise the app
Adjust your settings: This app will automatically post all your Facebook updates as Tweets. To remove certain activities simply uncheck the options; status updates, photos, notes, videos, links, and events & save.

You’ll still need to jump onto your Twitter App to check for replies or mentions – as they won’t come through on the original platform. Remember social media is a two-way conversation so make sure you’re being active on Twitter despite your newfound streamlined posting system.