Dofollow Forum Usage 101 – How to Not Be Labeled as a Spammer
Dofollow forum postings with signature links is a great way to build links to your website. But your link building campaign will go awry if you are banned from the forum and your posts are removed because you are deemed a spammer. So how do you avoid being labeled as a spammer?
1. Fill Out Your Profile
One of the first signs of a hit and run forum spammer is a user without a profile. So don’t just fill out your link – give your profile some personal touches like filling in your location, hobbies, bio, and adding a photo / avatar.
2. Follow the Rules
Get familiar with the rules of the forum. Some forums allow things that others don’t, like a certain amount of posts before adding links and so on. Also, browse through some of the longer threads – there you will see how the majority of the forum operates, and you will get a better idea of what is and is not allowed.
3. Read the Thread
I don’t mean just the original post, but read some of the responses as well. It’s not always possible, as some threads have been around longer and have pages and pages of replies. But for shorter threads, read the entire thread, and when you reply, try to include quotes of previous responses. This shows that you aren’t just taking two seconds to glance over everything and get your signature link in just anywhere.
4. Get Personal
One of the fun things about forums is that not all of the chat is strictly about the main topic. Most forums have a off topic section where you can speak your peace about anything. This a great way to show you are a real person, and not just some drive by spammer.
5. Visit Often
Another sign of a spammer is a one time visitor who hits up a lot of threads and never returns. Try to create a system so that you know you have to visit particular forums often, so you can respond to anyone who has replied to one of your posts in a timely manner.
6. Defend Yourself
Sometimes, even if you follow all of the rules, you will still be called out as a spammer, as some forum members are there just to chat, and they assume anyone with a link in their signature is just there to spam and run. If possible, point out that the forum allows signatures with links, there is no specific rule saying that your link is violating the terms, and that you are posting relevant responses in the forum. Defend, defend, and defend your position, and keep continuing to post good responses in the forum. Eventually people will see your value and you will become a part of the community.
Your Forum Tips
Are you a regular forum user, or someone who is using forums to build backlinks? What advice would you give others in regards to becoming a valuable forum community member and not getting tagged as a spammer?
Great tips. Its very easy to be labeled a spammer these days. I was thinking about getting into a few forums but i don’t have a list of do-follow forums. by chance do you have a list you are willing to share maybe that have to do with tech/gadgets?
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@Apple Tablet, I think most of the forums in my list are more web development and optimization related, but I’ll look into more tech ones!
I post in forums as a way to advertise my website, but out of maybe 10, there will always be 1 that will label me as a spammer even if I do steps number 1 to 5 in this post. I do not bother defending myself anymore, it’s usually waste of energy. I feel like no one’s really “manning the post” on those forums and they just let the automatic responses rule.
Great tips. So far I am not so much into forums. Due to my work I feel forum is not for me but after reading your tips here, I think I will give it s try in 2010 to forums. Count me in. Any suggestions on which forums is best to share ideas about marketing and at the same time learning from the forumers too.
I post in forums to get backlinks but I choose forums that I am interested in and only post when something interests me. I normally have good posts but sometimes a quick answer is needed. I always follow the rules and but don’t really worry about making frieds that just happens naturally.
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Great tips its very easy to be labeled a spammer my best advice is never leave a link to your blog, or website in the main body of your posts. That is what the forum signature is for!
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Good tips here. Getting involved in forums is a powerful strategy, not only for linking purposes but also for exposing you and your brand to your market. However, it must be done correctly and tactfully. Thank you for the excellent guidelines …