Skip to main content

RSS Feeds: How to Make Them Work for You

rss feedWhat is an RSS Feed?

Really Simple Syndication (RSS): In simple words, RSS refers to a notification system which is keeps subscribers updated with the latest updates on their favorite websites which could be blogs, music sites, etc. When a user subscribes to an RSS feed, they will receive updates from their favorite sites. To find out if the site is RSS-enabled look for the (usually) orange button that allows visitors to subscribe.

Many people don’t know how to use the RSS button that they see on a website or what it’s for. For the Internet-savvy, it is turning out to be the best way to simplify their searches. Generally, RSS feeds contain summaries of the web pages and allow the subscribers to pick and read the article of their choice. A powerful aggregator which helps you organize and choose the news items just like an email is all that you need to get the most out of RSS feeds.

Upon subscription, you will receive updates automatically. Subscribers can also choose to display the feeds on their web pages so visitors can view the updates as well. As a result, your website will generate more traffic. RSS feeds are turning out to be an essential tool in web marketing today. Your client is constantly reminded of your website’s existence and most importantly the updates will encourage them to visit your site regularly.

Making RSS Feeds Work for You

    1. Create your RSS feed: Write an appropriate title and description and ensure that the link leads to the website with the actual content.
    2. Validate your RSS feed: Once you’ve created your RSS feed, validate it. Read more about the RSS format standard and ensure that your RSS feed conforms to the format.
      1. W3C Feed Validation Service
      2. Feed Validator
    3. Create a web page for displaying your RSS feeds: After your RSS feed is validated, add it to your web site. Creating a separate web page for displaying RSS feeds is a common web practice. Once you have created and validated your RSS feed, create a separate web page for displaying it.
    4. Promote your feed: Once the RSS feeds are up on your website, you need to ensure that your potential viewers are aware of it.
      1. Open Google Feedburner to create your feed
      2. Fill in the form to create your feed and get it published
    5. Allow access to RSS Reader: Add a link to which enables your viewers to ‘download RSS reader’.
    6. Be regular with updates: It is important to update your RSS feeds. It is as important as updating your website content. If you aren’t updating your feeds, your viewers don’t have any reason to continue to subscribe to them.