Don’t forget forums as a great source of social media

Website design By BotEap.comFor many of us, the term ‘social networks’ it is practically identical to Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Website design By BotEap.comAt a minimum, we’ll tend to associate social media with analogues of these big three sites, and generally think of social media as modern sites where you can log in and share pictures and status updates.

Website design By BotEap.comIn reality, though, the web has been social long before Facebook was a twinkle in Mark Zuckerberg’s eye.

Website design By BotEap.comWhen the web first exploded in popularity, people were already having discussions and debates about their favorite hobbies and interests, but they were doing it in chat rooms and forums.

Website design By BotEap.comAnd while Facebook and Twitter have more prominence now than the aforementioned chat rooms, they are still available and still offer plenty of opportunities.

Website design By BotEap.comWhat are forums?

Website design By BotEap.comA forum is essentially a message board, usually attached to a website, where people can post questions and get answers. Users must first create a profile and from there they can create or reply to ‘threads’, as well as do other things like send private messages.

Website design By BotEap.comIn other words, these act like the groups or pages on social networks, providing a discussion that is focused on a specific topic and where only ‘members’ can contribute.

Website design By BotEap.comThis is one of the biggest draws to these forums: they have a ‘VIP’ feel and tend to foster a much tighter community. Many people will make friends on the forums, or even work together on joint projects, etc.

Website design By BotEap.comThe advantages of forums

Website design By BotEap.comSo while forums are smaller than social networks, they are also much more specific and users tend to be very engaged and passionate about the topic. This creates an ideal opportunity for you to gain exposure for your product or website if you post there.

Website design By BotEap.comThe problem is that most companies have no idea how to use forums. They will simply create accounts, log in, and then post your link as an ad. Considering the cabal that users of these forums become and how protective they are of their community, you can imagine that this is often met with disdain.

Website design By BotEap.comSo, to be successful on forums, the goal is to post links only after you’ve established yourself as an active member of that community.

Website design By BotEap.comTo do that, you need to get involved: answering questions, starting discussions, and finding things you find useful. Although it takes a bit of work, this can allow you to learn more about your target audience, show that you’re an expert on your topic, and build a loyal following and even friends.

Website design By BotEap.comOnce you manage that, you may even find that they actively help you promote your business!