Forums worth Your Time?
Are forums really worth your time? I would like to share a story with you about my personal experience, then you decide whether participating in forums is for you.
This particular story started about 2 years ago when I made an improper post in a popular forum. By improper, I mean it was made with the best of intentions but was misunderstood and several members of the forum were lets say, less than cordial in their responses.
However, several did understand my “newbie” mistake and did understand what I was trying to say, plus offered some great advice. Though surprised, through that post I got to know several members, TE, and other program owners.
Keep in mind this was before Soaring4Traffic was even an idea, much less a reality. This story is just about one of those members, Chris Houg.
You see, what Chris did was point out the possible mistake I had made, yet seemed to have a full understanding of my reason for posting. Of course I then joined several programs of members that did follow up posts, and then proceeded to read other posts made by these members.
All of Chris Houg’s post seemed like he really wanted to offer professional advice and help to members questions and had knowledge in his replies.
After following Chris more, getting to know him better, joining his TE, LotsMoreHits, I soon became aware that he also owned a hosting company.
Guess what, when Soaring4Traffic grew to such a size that I felt a dedicated server was needed, who did I contact first? You’re right, Chris responded to all of my questions about servers, what was needed, options and the pricing.
Long story short, Soaring4Traffic had been on one of LotsMoreHosting dedicated servers since June 2008. One of the best decisions I’ve made concerning the growth and expansion of my business.
My point is this. Do you participate in forums to learn, meet new people, get advice or ask questions? What has been your experience?
Personally I have many other such stories, Chris just happens to be one that stands out and has benefited both he and I. Though I’ve never met Chris face to face, or might never, I do have a certain comfort level earned strictly through his forum postings, and of course now even more through a business relationship.
Would you like to share your story or experience in forums? If so I have started a thread at the Members Forum to get your response. Use this link to read and post your experience.
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Hope to see you in the forum.
That’s all for today, happy holidays and look for our next email for more.
Ray White
Soaring4Traffic.com
December 8th, 2008 at 4:24 pm
Great story, Chris is one of the good guys in this business and has been for years.
However, your choice of forums….Why would I want to hang around a forum that made their paying customers out to be the bad guy? No thanks, I’ll stick to NMF where money is made and you are not looked at as a bad person for having an opinion and an advertising budget.
December 8th, 2008 at 4:27 pm
That’s a great story, Ray.
I first met you on the Affiliate Funnel forum when you graciously answered some of my questions. Because of your helpful nature, I followed some of your suggestions.
When Soaring4Traffic opened, it was a complete no-brainer to join and upgrade.
Hopefully, we’ll do many things in our online businesses to continue to help each other, and it all started because you went a little out of your way to answer some questions that were really bothering me.
Act on your dream!
JD
December 8th, 2008 at 6:40 pm
Great stuff Ray, I can honestly say forums helped me get to where I am today (especially jon’s NMF). Yes, unfortunately most forum goers are pretty negative, but it’s worth it to find the good people who are honestly there to help.
December 8th, 2008 at 6:46 pm
Hi Ray,
I really appreciated your story and know that the benefits we can all gain from getting involved and asking questions is enormous. Whether we utilize forums, blogs, chats within the many te’s that offer this feature or other means of communication, it is a valuable tool in deed to gather whatever information you can from those with more experience.
I for one, view you as an ever willing, considerate and helpful friend and mentor to many, including me!
Thank you for all that you do
CJ
December 8th, 2008 at 8:00 pm
Hi Ray,
The Members Forum is a great choice for surfers and TE owners alike, I also like the Traffic Exchange Alliance forum and once in awhile I stop by the forum that the other guy mentioned in a comment above.
Keep up the great work,
Mark Edward Brown
December 8th, 2008 at 9:04 pm
Hi Ray,
I love forums, I met some great people there that I became friends with and helped each other with our websites. great blog and I love s4t
Judy
judy4ny
5847
December 8th, 2008 at 9:57 pm
Hi Ray, Forums are good – Great way to meet and make Friends and Learn some new ways on how to do Biz .Ray, Keep on doing what you do: A BIG THANK YOU
December 9th, 2008 at 7:51 am
Hi Ray
Still trying to find my way and have been nervous about posting on Forums!
Maybe I should find some!