Is it possible to promote your affiliate link without having a website, a list, using pay per click search engines or any other obvious means?
Many times over people have asked me “All I have is an internet browser and internet connection, is it really possible to promote any kind of affiliate program or business?”
The answer is “Yes!”
There are a few ways to get free traffic to your site, but today we will talk about forums . There are many names for forums , including discussion boards, social networking, communities etc.
Many people will involve themselves in at least one online forum . A couple of the big name ones are “Myspace”, “Facebook” etc. It is a great way to connect with other people, whether it be friends, making new friends, or way to socialize. While some are very informal and can involve discussions on everyday issues, others are a more formal and careful attention should be taken when posting.
So how can this work for you?
There are several ways you can use these online forums to promote your affiliate link, which will bring you free traffic and can be very successful.
1. Your profile. When doing your profile, ask yourself, how do you wish to be seen. The first thing any person is going to see is your picture and will read about who you are. While cute display pictures might make people smile, they do not lend to a credibility or make you look very professional.
2. Your signature. Just about all forums will let you put in a signature. This is an ideal way to promote your affiliate link. The more you post in relevant discussions, the more people will see your link. People who are used to seeing your comments will likely respond warmly to your website just because they consider you familiar.
3. Your friends. Just about all forums allow you to invite friends. This is an ideal way to create a “downline” for yourself, without having to work so hard. Make a point of “adding” friends so that when you do advertise, people will see what you are offering.
4. Your events. Many of the forums have a way for you to create an event or to use a message board or direct contact. Once you have built a good sized list of friends then posting in this manner can create an avalanche of prospects at one time. This is free advertising at its best and has been very successful for many people.
5. Your Advertisements. Just about all forums , will allow you to post ads on your “page” some might call it your “shopping mall”. Other forums will give you a web page to create a way to advertise what you are offering. Take advantage of this, as once again it is a free way to get people to notice not only you as a person, but what you are offering.
6. Make sure that you post accurate comments. If your are going to give examples, make sure that you can back them up with facts. Giving misleading information only hurts other people who are wanting to learn. Not only that but you will lose your credibility.
7. Take time to create a relevant subject line. By creating a good subject line that is relevant to what you have to say, you are showing respect for other people. Many people skim posts to find ones that are of particular interest to them. Believe it or not, you will gain more exposure to your thread and people will will read it.
Like anything else there are rules. Advertising in the wrong area of the forums , can be considered a form of spam, so always read the Terms of Service (TOS) so that you will not get into any trouble. You don’t want to ruin your promoted blog/website’s reputation or even your own reputation.
When deciding to use online forums to promote your blog link you need to consider what types of forums would be the most appropriate for your posts. You can certainly use forums that you regularly comment within, even though they have nothing to do with your website, and don’t be afraid to use other styles of forums .
Overall, the more people you reach with your use of online forums to promote your affiliate link, the more positive results you will see. Using forums is a terrific approach for those on a tight budget who still want to promote their link as well as being part of a comprehensive marketing strategy.
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