Ways to Auto Populate a Twitter Account
How to Automate New Blog Posts to Display as Tweets
Apr 14, 2009
Bloggers who use the WordPress platform can automatically add new blog posts to their Twitter account without having to sign into Twitter. The WordPress plugin TwitPress makes it easy to create post links to the blog that do not exceed the 140 Twitter character limitation.
WordPress bloggers interested in utilizing the feature must download the free TwitPress plugin available from WordPress.org.
TwitPress Installation and Configuration
- After downloading the plugin, extract the compressed file and upload it to the wp-content/plugin folder of the WordPress blog.
- Activate the plugin by signing into the Administrative area of the blog and accessing the Plugins tab. Once TwitPress is activated, all that is left to do is configure it to post to the Twitter.
- Navigate to the Tools section of the blog and click on the TwitPress link. Configure the plugin by entering the username and password for the Twitter account. Make sure to modify the default Twitter wording for the new blog post. The default format is: New entry: title link
- Save the updated options and test it out by posting a new blog entry. Make sure to check the Twitter account to ensure the post displays properly.
Tweet Later for Non WordPress Blogs
Bloggers who blog on a non WordPress platform can achieve the same functionality by using a service such as Tweet Later. Tweet Later allows bloggers to upload posts automatically to any Twitter account.
Tweet Later Registration and Configuration
- Visit the Tweet Later website and register for an account.
- Sign in and add the blogs for which the posts should automatically post to the Twitter account.
- Configure the settings to automatically send new post entries to the Twitter account.
Tweet Later has many options that are not available to bloggers using the WordPress TwitPress plugin. Among other features, Tweet Later allows bloggers to auto follow new followers to their Twitter account. Additionally, new tweets can be pre scheduled. This feature comes in handy for bloggers looking to ensure the special happy birthday wish is sent on time or for sending timely acknowledgements of special dates and/or anniversaries.
Making the Decision Between Tweet Later and TwitPress
WordPress bloggers looking for an easy way to auto update Twitter accounts; TwitPress is the way to go. However, any blogger looking for additional features whether the blog platform is WordPress or not, Tweet Later is more robust and offers a host of configurable options. It all boils down to using the right tool to meet the blogger's needs.
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