Times are changing, and so are social media algorithms. To maximise clicks, engagement, and reach, it’s important to understand the best places to include your links on each platform. With so many options available, such as captions, stories, and bio sections, the ideal placement will depend on the platform and the type of post you’re sharing.

Facebook
Facebook offers a few creative ways to share links. You can use carousel posts to showcase multiple links in a compact space, or simply include the link in the first comment and mention it in the body of your post. Facebook tends to penalise posts that explicitly ask for actions like comments, shares, and likes. Instead, try a more natural approach by directing your audience to the first comment for the link (e.g., “Check out more in the first comment”). This keeps your post looking clean and encourages better engagement.

Instagram
While Instagram doesn’t allow clickable links in captions, there are still plenty of places to add links. Instagram Stories, Reels, and Direct Messages are great opportunities to include clickable links. You can also add up to 5 links in your bio, though only one link is really visible. To get around this limitation, consider using a Linktree (or similar service), which lets you link to multiple pages through one URL. For more info on this, check out our article on Linktree. Additionally, Instagram’s link stickers in Stories provide another great way to add clickable links. More on this can be found in our guide on creating clickable links in Instagram Stories.

LinkedIn
LinkedIn’s algorithm favours content that keeps users on the platform, so be sure to create posts that provide value and insights. If you’re sharing links, it’s best to add them toward the end of your post, keeping the main content engaging and relevant. Additionally, try the “write-post-edit” method, where you can publish your post without a link initially and add it later. This approach drives initial engagement and boosts additional interest once the link is added.

X (formerly Twitter)
On Twitter, pasting links directly into your tweet text is the most effective way to engage your audience. Since Twitter has a character limit, you can create threads by replying to your own tweet. This way, you can share more details, and ensure the link is visible right from the start. Remember to place the link in the original tweet to make sure it stands out.

Tips for Using Links Effectively

• Shorten your links: Use a service like Bit.ly to create cleaner, trackable links.
• Avoid asking for likes, shares, or comments directly: Instead, focus on creating engaging content that naturally encourages interaction.
• Place links at the end: If the link is essential to the message, place it at the end of a post so users can understand the context first.
• Test and adjust: Social media is always evolving, so monitor how your links perform and adjust placement accordingly.

Need support with social media management? Whether it’s a few hours per month or a weekly check-in, Red Desk offers social media management services to handle all your posting and engagement, allowing you to focus on growing your business.