Connecting Threads
Learn how to connect your Threads account to start publishing content.
What is Threads?
Threads is Meta's text-based conversation app, integrated with Instagram. It serves as an ideal platform for book promotion with its emphasis on conversational content and engagement.
Why Threads for Book Marketing?
- Longer posts: 500 characters vs Twitter's 280 - perfect for book descriptions
- Conversational tone: Better engagement with readers through discussions
- Algorithm favors replies: Encouraging conversations boosts visibility
- Hashtag support: Reach readers through genre-specific hashtags
- Growing community: Active book community on the platform
Differences from Twitter/X
| Feature | Threads | Twitter/X |
|---|---|---|
| Character Limit | 500 characters | 280 characters |
| Images per Post | Up to 10 | Up to 4 |
| Video Length | Up to 5 minutes | Up to 2:20 |
| Account Type | Linked to Instagram | Standalone |
Prerequisites
Important: You must have an Instagram Business or Creator account with Threads enabled.
Step 1: Convert to Instagram Business Account
- Open the Instagram app on your mobile device
- Go to your profile and tap the menu (☰)
- Select "Settings" → "Account"
- Tap "Switch to Professional Account"
- Choose "Business" or "Creator"
- Complete the setup process
Step 2: Enable Threads
- Download the Threads app from the App Store or Google Play
- Open Threads and sign in with your Instagram account
- Complete your Threads profile setup
- Verify that Threads is active and linked to your Instagram account
Note: If Threads is not available in your region, you may need to wait for it to launch in your country.
Connecting Your Account
Step-by-Step Guide
Note: Threads connections are managed through Outstand, which provides secure OAuth integration with Meta platforms.
- Navigate to Set Up in the sidebar
- Scroll to the Social Media Connections section
- Find the Threads card in the platform grid
- Click the "Connect Threads" button
- You'll be redirected to Meta's authorization page (via Outstand)
- Review the permissions requested and click "Authorize"
- You'll be redirected back to our platform
- Your Threads account will now be connected!
Permissions We Request
- threads_basic: Access to your basic Threads profile information
- threads_content_publish: Ability to create and publish posts on your behalf
- threads_manage_insights: Access to post analytics and engagement metrics
- threads_manage_replies: Ability to manage replies to your posts
Security: All tokens are encrypted and stored securely. We never store your Instagram password.
Troubleshooting
"Threads not available" Error
Possible causes:
- Your Instagram account is not a Business or Creator account
- Threads is not enabled on your Instagram account
- Threads is not available in your region
- Your Instagram account is not properly linked to Threads
Solutions:
- Verify your Instagram account type in Instagram settings
- Open the Threads app and ensure you can post
- Check that Threads is available in your country
- Try disconnecting and reconnecting your account
"Authorization failed" Error
Possible causes:
- You cancelled the authorization
- Network connectivity issues
- Meta API temporary issues
Solutions:
- Try connecting again
- Check your internet connection
- Wait a few minutes and retry if Meta's API is experiencing issues
Token Expiration Issues
Threads access tokens expire after 60 days. Our system automatically refreshes tokens, but if refresh fails:
- Go to Setup page
- If you experience connection issues, disconnect and reconnect your account
Best Practices
Optimal Posting Times
- Weekdays: 9am, 12pm, 3pm, 7pm, 9pm
- Weekends: 10am, 2pm, 8pm
- Times are in your local timezone
Character Length Recommendations
- Short posts (under 200 chars): Quick engagement, quotes, teasers
- Medium posts (300-400 chars): Sweet spot for best engagement
- Long posts (400-500 chars): Comprehensive content, book launches
Hashtag Strategy
- Use 3-5 hashtags per post
- Mix popular and niche hashtags
- Include genre-specific hashtags
- Place hashtags at the end of your post
Engagement Tips
- Respond to replies promptly (algorithm boost)
- Ask questions to encourage conversation
- Use conversational tone rather than promotional
- Post consistently (3-5 times per day maximum)
- Cross-promote with Instagram posts