Forums aren’t marketplaces but when
used as such, the marketers’ actions become offensive and will only inspire the
wrath of fellow members and marketers, not to mention moderators who can ban
them from the site with the click of their mouse.
In order to be
effective, this kind of marketing carries a certain degree of commitment,
responsibility, and respect. The first requirement is to take a personal
interest in the main topic of the forum. Not only does that mean visiting
it regularly, but it also means developing a good relationship with both other
members and the moderators, as well as taking an active interest in helping
others. Of course, it also means abiding by all the rules that exist. By doing
this, one can develop a reputation and, since it is human nature to work with a
trusted colleague, business will naturally develop from this.
This type of
marketing has already suffered some abuse and because of this, many forums have
recently developed stringent rules designed to protect their members from
abusive or overly-aggressive marketing tactics. One forum grants sig files only
after a member has created one hundred valid posts and another has disallowed
ads in sig files altogether.
Marketers must
respect that the purpose of a forum is to be a platform to exchange ideas on a
given topic. It is not there to advertise products and services. By focusing on
the topic and posting questions and answers, a marketer’s reputation will grow
and this creates the potential for sales naturally. You MUST focus on the forum topic and create yourself as a
professional in that subject.
Everyone knows
you want to sell your services and/or products, but using a forum platform you
must first follow the rules and establish yourself as the “go to” person within
that field.
QUOTE TO CONSIDER
THOUGHTFUL GEM
"To develop trust takes time
and it may take more time than we thought."
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