RSS Tutorial
RSS Stands for Really Simple Syndication and using them really is, really simple. If you’re reading RSS feeds, you don’t need to learn about how to create them, just how to stream all of your favorite syndications into one place.
What is a Feed Reader, How does it Work, and Why Use One?
- What is a Feed Reader: It’s kind of like a virtual magazine shell that always updates with the latest stories from your favorite bloggers and content providers.
- How does it work: Without getting technical, it automatically displays current posts from blogs and websites that you’re subscribed to and alerts you to new posts.
- Why use one: To stay on top of the news, opinions, surveys, and expert advice in your industry and on topics that you want to learn more about.
Step by Step: Setting up an RSS Feed Reader
There are quite a few RSS feed readers out there. Instead of going through how to set up each one of them, I’m going to go step by step on how to set up and add feeds to my RSS feed reader of choice. I’ll also provide links to RSS readers that other members of Create Business Growth are using and why they use them as opposed to other readers.
I use Google reader. Why? I’m comfortable with Google because I use it all the time and I like the philosophy by which the company is run. Also, because the settings are attached to my Google profile, I can access my feeds from any computer.
Getting Started with Google Reader:
- Go to http://www.google.com/reader
- Log in if you have an account
- Create an account if you don’t already have one
That’s it! Now it’s time to start adding feeds!
When you find blog that you want to subscribe to, simply:
- Right click the RSS icon
- Choose “copy link location”
- Go to your reader and click “Add Subscription”
- Paste the link
copy the link…
paste the link…
Seriously, it’s that easy!
David on the other hand uses RSS Bandit. Why? Because when he’s traveling to speaking engagements and can’t get an internet connection in the vehicle, the last updated posts are available to view without a connection.
Fred also uses RSS Bandit. Why? Because it was the first one he found in Google at the time when searching for RSS readers. (Ah, the power of search engine optimization)
Tara uses Yahoo RSS feed reader because it was easy to set up and because all her feed are right on the same page that she uses to log into her email.
As you can see, there are lots of different RSS feed readers to fit just about any lifestyle. Choose one of these or find your own, but definitely get one! Having an RSS feed reader is the ideal way to stay on top of the latest news and trends in your industry. It’s also a great way to get to know how the influential people in your industry think.
Once you get your reader set up, don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for a steady stream of powerful, proven, and inexpensive ways that you can grow your business!
Here are some of our top blog picks to add to your feed reader for expert advice on growing your business online and off:
The Engagement Principals
Feed link:Feed link
Marketing Experiments
Feed link
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