Introduction
URL shorteners are incredibly useful for making long links manageable, trackable, and more appealing. But like any tool, they can backfire if used incorrectly. Whether you're a business owner, digital marketer, or content creator, avoiding common mistakes can save you from missed opportunities and lost trust.
In this article, we’ll look at the most frequent URL shortener errors and how to fix them—so your links perform better and reflect your brand in the best light.
1. Using Generic Shorteners for Branding
One of the biggest mistakes businesses make is relying on free or generic shorteners like bit.ly or tinyurl.com when branding matters.
Why it’s a mistake:
Generic domains don’t reflect your brand and may look unprofessional or even suspicious.
Better option:
Use a custom domain like yourbrand.link or go.company.com with a tool like URLShortly.com. It increases credibility and trust with your audience.
2. Forgetting to Customize the Slug
Leaving the end of your shortened URL as random characters (bit.ly/xp9a3f) makes it harder for users to remember or recognize where the link leads.
Why it matters:
Custom slugs like /sale2025 or /signup-now are easier to promote verbally, write in print, or recall later.
Pro Tip:
Always write meaningful slugs. Keep them short, readable, and relevant to the content.
3. Not Tracking Clicks or Analyzing Data
Many people shorten links but never review their performance metrics—missing out on valuable insights.
What you’re missing:
How many people clicked
Where they’re located
Which platform drove the traffic
Which links performed best
Solution:
Use URL shortening platforms that provide analytics, such as URLShortly, to fine-tune future campaigns.
4. Overusing Short Links in One Post
Using multiple short links in the same social media post or email can confuse readers.
Why this is bad:
It looks spammy and makes it unclear where you want the user to go first.
Fix it:
Prioritize one main link per message. If you need multiple, use tools like Link-in-Bio pages or link aggregators.
5. Shortening Already Short URLs
Some URLs are already short, like shopnow.com/deal. There’s no need to shorten them unless you're tracking performance or using a custom domain.
Mistake:
Shortening short URLs unnecessarily can make them look over-engineered or break branding consistency.
What to do:
Only shorten when:
You need analytics
You're branding the URL
You’re sharing on platforms where link length matters
6. Linking to Outdated or Broken Pages
Short links are often used across multiple platforms. If the destination URL changes or the page is deleted, all your marketing efforts are wasted.
Real Problem:
Users will hit a 404 error, damaging trust and your brand image.
Prevention:
Use link shorteners that allow link editing (like URLShortly), so you can update the destination URL even after publishing it.
7. Not Using HTTPS (Secure Links)
Links without HTTPS may be flagged as insecure by browsers or email clients.
Why it matters:
Users are less likely to click on non-secure links. In some cases, they may not load at all.
Pro Tip:
Always enable SSL/HTTPS for your branded domain to ensure safe and trusted redirection.
8. Ignoring Mobile Optimization
If your landing page isn’t mobile-friendly, your short link will underperform—even if everything else is done right.
Fix it:
Always test your links on both desktop and mobile devices before launching your campaign.
Conclusion
URL shorteners are powerful tools—but only when used correctly. By avoiding these common mistakes, you ensure your links not only look professional but also perform efficiently. Choose a branded shortener like URLShortly.com, track your metrics, and always put user trust first.