One of our users recently asked how to automate WordPress post creation whenever they upload a new video to their YouTube channel. While embedding YouTube videos in WordPress is straightforward, it typically requires manual login, post creation, and embedding. In this guide, drawn from our extensive experience helping site owners streamline workflows, we'll walk you through setting up automatic post generation using the free IFTTT service.
We've relied on IFTTT for years to connect services like YouTube and WordPress, saving countless hours for creators worldwide.
IFTTT stands for "If This Then That," a robust automation platform that connects apps and services via customizable "Applets" (formerly recipes). For instance, it can auto-post to social media when you publish new content. Explore our detailed guide on automating WordPress and social media with IFTTT for more real-world examples.
Head to the IFTTT website and sign up for a free account.
After logging in, click the Create button to build your first Applet.
This launches the Applet wizard. Select a trigger by clicking the 'this' link.
Browse or search for YouTube and select it.
Activate your YouTube channel by granting IFTTT access.
Choose the New video uploaded trigger.
Since this trigger has no customizable fields, simply click Create trigger.
Now define the action by clicking that.
Search for and select WordPress.
Activate WordPress by entering your site URL, username, and password.
Select Create a post.
Customize with YouTube ingredients: Use the video title for the post title, and include the description and URL in the content body.
Choose to publish immediately, save as private, or draft. Then click Create action.
Review and finalize by clicking Create Applet.
Important: IFTTT shortens URLs by default, preventing WordPress embeds. Disable this: Click your username > Preferences > URL Shortening, and turn it off.
Your Applet is live! IFTTT checks YouTube every 15 minutes and auto-creates posts for new videos.
This setup has transformed content workflows for many of our readers. For more, check our 9 essential YouTube tips for WordPress.
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