How to Use Buffer's Link Shortener
- George Apostolov
How to Use Buffer's Link Shortener: step-by-step guide
Log in to Buffer, select your desired social media account, and click "Settings."
Click on "General."
Go to "Link Shortening" and choose a default link shortener (e.g., buff.ly or Bit.ly).
Go to your social media channel and click on "+" to create a new post.
When creating a post, paste your link—Buffer will automatically shorten it.
Click "Add to Queue" or schedule your post as needed.
Quick answer: To use Buffer's link shortener, log in and select Settings, click General, and choose a default link shortener under Link Shortening. Next, create a new post on your channel, paste your link to have Buffer automatically shorten it, and finally click Add to Queue or schedule the post.
About this Buffer tutorial
Shorten your links automatically by configuring default link shortener settings in Buffer and pasting URLs into your scheduled posts. This guide shows how to use Buffer's Link Shortener in 6 steps, starting with "Log in to Buffer, select your desired social media account, and click 'Settings'" and finishing with "Click 'Add to Queue' or schedule your post as needed". The interactive demo above is a click-through copy of the real Buffer interface, so you can rehearse each step before doing it in your own account.
Frequently asked questions
How many steps does it take to use Buffer's Link Shortener?
6 steps. Each one is listed in order above, and the demo highlights exactly where to click.
Can I try it without changing my own account?
Yes. Clicking through the demo doesn't touch your Buffer data or settings. Once you know the flow, repeat it in your own workspace.
This tutorial is filed under Buffer. Related guides: How to Use Buffer's Mobile App, How to Use Buffer's URL Shortener and How to Use Canva Designs in Buffer Posts. Last reviewed 05 Oct 2026.
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