Hootsuite is one of the most useful programs we use, it can be an absolute godsend for continuing to interact with other social media users at times when you are not physically able to get to the internet.
Although using some of the more advanced features of the software requires you to update the program, which means paying a fairly small amount, using Hootsuite scheduling comes free of charge with the basic version. Below is a basic guide on how you can use Hootsuite to schedule tweets or posts.
- Once you’ve set up your Hootsuite account and added the relevant social media accounts, you need to make sure you have added the streams which will come up as shown below. To make it is easier for yourself it’s probably a good idea to add the stream ‘Scheduled’, this can be done by clicking the green plus button in the bottom left hand corner, then the following highlighted icon which will add a new stream. This will advise you of any scheduled tweets or posts.
- You will then need to compose your message as you would normally and select which platform you wish to send it from, whether it is Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn or another source, ensuring all spelling, grammar, punctuation and tone is correct and relevant to your business.
- To schedule your tweet for a later time is very simple. All you need to do is click the icon which is shaped like a calendar (highlighted above) and this will bring up a new box. This will then give you the option to chose the time, and date when you’d like the post to be live from your account.
- After choosing the time and date of your message, you can then click schedule. Hootsuite will automatically refresh itself and add a message to your scheduled posts stream, telling you when and where your message will be posted. It will even still allow you the opportunity to edit the message again before posting should you need to make any amendments.
And there you have it! Simple yet effective. Whether you’re using Hootsuite as a one off or as a form or social media management, it can revolutionise your business. It’s great for when you don’t have time, are away over the weekend or holidays, or just want to schedule your time more wisely. Hootsuite has many more useful characteristics including analytics reports and it also allows you to manage more than one form of social media at one time, without having to log in and out of multiple websites.
