Simplifying Social Media: Tumblr

Tumblr is a free and lightweight blogging platform that makes sharing text, links, music, videos, and more extremely easy.

Some have called Tumblr a cross between Twitter (where people tweet images, links, and short thoughts) and a traditional blogging platform such as WordPress (where each entry is akin to an article). Tumblr handles each type of post differently (i.e. text versus a video). While that may sound complicated - it's actually quite the opposite. Tumblr is insanely user-friendly and versitle, which is one of the reasons it has grown so large. Launched in 2007, Tumblr now boasts over 47 million blogs and it's only continuing to rise in popularity.

So what can Tumblr offer you? Consider the following features:


1. Easy to Use and Update

Tumblr's online interface is extremely user-friendly and simple. In fact, if you're looking to start your first blog, Tumblr may be the way to go.

In addition, you don't even have to access the online interface in order to make an update. You can text or email updates from any mobile phone; use a Bookmarklet to post items as you browse the web; make posts via an iPhone or third-party app; call in and leave voice posts; and more!



2. Social Network Integration

Tumblr is highly integrated with top social media sites including Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube. For example, if you post something on Tumblr, it can automatically appear on your Facebook wall - or vice versa - allowing you to keep your followers updated no matter what platform they're using.

3. Optimized for Google

Tumblr is built with Google in mind, so you can be sure your Tumblr site is getting the search engine love (i.e. visibility).

4. Endless Customization

Everything from your Tumblr domain name (i.e. www.tumblr.com/johndoe), to your site's colors, fonts, layout, coding, etc. is under your control. You can personalize your site to coordinate with your branding or marketing image, or simply to reflect your personal tastes.


Action Step: Watch the video below. Consider the numerous benefits of Tumblr, your business goals, and your level of computer skills. Would Tumblr make sense for your business? If so, then place a checkmark next to the Tumblr icon on your Social Media Strategy Guide.

What if you marked off "Blog" on your guide earlier in the series? Consider which option might be the better choice. You don't need to decide today. If you're unsure, check both options and make a note to weigh the two choices later.

Getting Started with Tumblr



Helpful Links:

Why Everyone Loves Tumblr (official page)

About Tumblr (official page)


Helpful Books:

Tackling Tumblr: Web Publishing Made Simple

Tackling Tumblr: Web Publishing Made Simple (Kindle)