Resource Roundup: How to Migrate Google Reader to Feedly

Today is the start of a new series that will highlight resources and tools designed to simplify the everyday management and monitoring of your social media efforts. Each one is something I use within my own business and will hopefully be a benefit in yours as well.I decided to begin with a fundamental tool that has enabled me to effortlessly stay up-to-date with my favorite bloggers while scouring the Internet for share-worthy content. That tool, up until a few weeks ago, was Google Reader.Google's decision to shut down Google Reader as of July 1st, 2013 has left many people scurrying for an alternative. As a fervent user of Google Reader for many years, I can understand the panic over its loss. The good news is that there are several other viable RSS options, but none as well suited for my needs as Feedly.I love Feedly for several reasons: the easy migration of data from Google Reader to Feedly, its beautiful and clean magazine-type layout, and the seamless integration with Buffer. I am an avid fan of Buffer and use it daily as a content management tool. Not using it? Find out what you are missing!

What is Feedly

Feedly is a cloud based RSS aggregator and reader that is available for web browsers and mobile operating systems. For someone like me who spends a considerable amount of time scanning the web for shareable content, a reader like Feedly is a must.Feedly assists users by organizing content into pre-determined categories. With an RSS reader, you no longer need to bounce from one blog to the next. You can now access your favorite blogs all in one location. It's a perfect time management solution!

Why Feedly is the Best Replacement for Google Reader

• Easy Migration from Google Reader: Users will only be required to log in to Feedly using their account and all the feds form google reader and all the categories will be easily imported to Feedly.
• Similar User Functionality: Feedly is similar to Google reader for users who don't like experiencing change. It has features like Tagging and star features, which were available on Google reader.
• Multiple Views: Allows you to transition between viewing options dependent on your preference
• Uninterrupted Use: Users can continue following their favorite trends and other services without interruptions, all they will be required to do is to migrate using the easy steps below and they will be good to go.

Steps to Migrate from Google Reader to Feedly

Ready to get started?Visit feedly.com. On their homepage you will find a button that prompts you to click and install Feedly. It detects the browser you are using and will show the correct button for your browser.

If you are using Chrome or Safari, a new tab will open with Feedly. If using Firefox, you will need to restart your browser to finish the installation.Your next step is to connect your Google Reader account. If you are using Chrome or Safari, a splash screen prompting you to get started will greet you immediately following installation.

If you are using Firefox, you are taken directly into the reader with no welcome screen. To import your feeds, click the "Connect to Google Reader" button.You will now receive a message from Google asking if you will allow access. Click the "allow access button" and Feedly will automatically import your feeds along with any items you have saved or starred on Google Reader.Feedly is now ready and you can start using it! You might also want to explore the Feedly browser extensions available for Safari, Chrome and Firefox. I use the Chrome extension and appreciate how easy it is to add a new RSS feed to my reader. Find additional tips on the Feedly blog.Have fun and enjoy!