How to create a content funnel with short links at each stage

A content funnel typically includes three main stages: Awareness (TOFU), Consideration (MOFU), and Decision (BOFU). Each stage serves a purpose — and each needs a specific action. Short links help move users forward with precision and trackability.

TOFU – Awareness Stage

Here, your goal is to attract. Articles, social media posts, videos, or lead magnets — the goal is to generate interest. Embedding short, trackable links (via Surl.li) lets you direct traffic to gated content, landing pages, or sign-up forms without clutter. These links are clean, easy to manage, and provide analytics from the first click.

MOFU – Consideration Stage

At this level, you nurture. You might offer case studies, product comparisons, or webinars. Here, short links become even more strategic. Each variant of your content can use a unique Surl.li URL with UTM tags. That allows you to measure which content pieces are driving deeper engagement, which source performs best, and where your audience drops off.

BOFU – Decision Stage

This is where clicks turn into conversions. Whether it’s a pricing page, free trial, or demo request — you want absolute clarity and tracking. A short link ensures a user-friendly experience (especially on mobile), while providing your team with final-touch attribution. Need to change the destination link last-minute? Dynamic editing makes that seamless — no broken funnels, no outdated links.

Beyond Convenience: The Real ROI

Short links aren’t just about aesthetics. They allow:

  • Consistent formatting across all channels

  • Editable routing without touching the content

  • Complete visibility on what works at each stage

  • Targeting by audience with segmented tracking URLs

  • Faster A/B testing by swapping links, not assets

Surl.li is particularly suited for funnel work thanks to its robust analytics, editable URLs, and bulk creation features — built with marketers (and results) in mind.

A great funnel isn't just about having good content — it’s about guiding the user with intent. Short links make that intent visible, clickable, and measurable. Without them, your content might just be... content.

But with the right link at the right time, it becomes a journey — one click at a time.