If you use RSS and are familiar with how it works, it’s easy to assume your audience understands it too.

And even though it’s been around for a few years, the average surfer still doesn’t know what an RSS feed is, much less how to subscribe.

It’s worth taking the time to explain what RSS is and the benefits of it. I recommend placing a link underneath (or near) your RSS button like I did (see right nav on this blog).

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By the way, that wasn’t an invite for you to copy my content on my RSS explanation page. Please tap into your own creativity.

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Or you can add a small question mark image next to the button that links to a short explanation of how to subscribe.

By the way, don’t bore them with all the technical details. Explain it briefly and stress the benefits of this functionality. Reassure them it’s the easiest way to keep track of your content.

There are many ways to educate your audience about RSS, so choose what works best for your site. Just make sure you take the time to do it, and don’t assume that little orange button is enough.