Internet Forums: Post Your Way to Success - Creating the All Important Signature File
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In order to gain new visitor traffic, develop a solid reputation, and gain search engine optimization benefits, you must create what is known as a signature file, or “sig line”. What a signature file does is create a live link back to your website from the message forum itself. That link into your website is very important.
The signature file for your link should not simply be your website’s URL. If at all possible, avoid that type of signature as it doesn’t describe your business. It also provides less than the desired level of search engine optimization. Using your website title is better, but still is not what you want to use.
Use a your targeted keyword phrase as your signature. If you can use the keywords, right in the live link, that is the best possible signature. It provides a keyword inbound link to your website. Many message forums permit the use of additional descriptions, brief offers to visitors, phone numbers, and even physical and e-mail addresses. Take advantage of these free promotional vehicles.
By targeting your most important keyword phrases, you accomplish several important goals at one time. You successfully describe your business and possibly what your business can do for anyone clicking on the link. You also gain powerful keyword rich backlinks to your website, enhancing your incoming link totals.
Posting on Forums and Forum Etiquette
Armed with a message board membership and a signature file, you are now almost ready to begin posting on the forum.
Prior to posting, be certain to read a number of the discussions, referred to as “threads” on the board. They will give you an idea of the topics under discussion. They will also help you to know some of the various posters and the forum moderators. The moderators are the board peacekeepers and often the initiators of new topics. They will usually post responses in a large number of threads as well.
Their style of posts will give you a very good idea as to the tone of the board, whether formal or casual. They are also very good people to get to know. Their assistance will help you to better utilize the message forums many services for all members, as well as yourself.
When you post, you want to be polite. Ask good questions seeking any information that you require. There are no foolish questions. Everyone was a first time poster at some point, so don’t be shy. If you are able to answer other members’ questions, feel free to do so.
By providing good informative answers that seek to help others, you will develop a reputation as being an expert in your field. That will go far in enhancing your business reputation as well.
Don’t get involved in arguments. Arguments on discussion boards are called “flaming”. Often involving personal attacks, “flame wars” are something for you to avoid. You shouldn’t involve yourself in a flaming match, even if your post is attacked for no reason. Provide a polite and informative answer. The other members will recognize you as a person who keeps their head in most situations.
Avoid being drawn into heated discussions with those who set out to cause arguments and flame wars. These individuals are known as “trolls”. Avoid their discussions, and don’t debate with them. They thrive on attention. Don’t give it to them. They will soon leave your message board for other locales.
Next: Marketing Benefits of the Message Boards >>
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