Networking Explained part 5: Using Forums

I’ve been a regular member of forums for many years. 1999 was the first forum I joined, but alas I won’t tell you the names of the first two I was so active with and made the most connections at because both to them are full of spam and misinformation now. My most important networking connections have come from these forums. And in fact my three business partners were both long time friends from forums.

Unfortunately, it seems that the focus of using forums has been lost again. I’ve watched it go in cycles and you will as well if you visit them for any length of time. Social networking is the cause for this latest rash. A lot of newbies have gotten used to social networking where they will just hit and run. That’s not the way any networking works, but it’s especially not the correct way to use forums. Networking is about making connections, forming bonds and building your area of expertise. It is not about getting as many links, that will go unclicked and unread, as possible.

In the last few months I’ve noticed a big trend of posting an introduction and then always replying to everyone’s intro with a quick, “Welcome to the site, glad you found us”. This gets your signature link on many posts, but where is the reason people should click your links? While this is very friendly of you, it will annoy all of the regulars on the forums who DO notice you haven’t posted anywhere else. I do encourage you to say hi to the newbies to the forums, but make sure you are an active part of the community as well.

There are also those that only post the new specials to the direct sales section of the forums. Again, that’s wonderful…IF you are actively participating in the forums. Even if you only post to your direct sales company forum, put up more than just the recent sales. Add in posts about your products specifically and not make them read like a total ad. Write about your favorite party and recruiting tips.

The reason to join forums is to interact. By answering and asking questions you are showing your genuine interest in others. People are much more likely to do business with and recommend you to those they know if they have interacted with you. Use forums correctly and see your site traffic and your sales rise.

Article Source: http://www.wahm-articles.com

Val Selby is the owner of www.WorkingWAHM.com a site dedicated to the true art of networking and showing you resources to help you work smarter from home. Helping other Mom’s in business and their personal life is her passion as a business owner and personal fitness trainer. You can find more resources for business and family life at www.MomChats.com

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