What Makes You Click On A Main Discussion Thread?

[Steven Wagenheim]

There are two purposes to this thread that I will address as clearly as
possible.

When we come to the Warrior Forum Main Discussion area, we are greeted
with a number of threads on the first page...each one trying to get our
attention. Some do, some don't.

If you look at the main page right now, you will see a few threads that have
generated some discussion. Probably the most popular right now is the
one about the WordPress virus. Naturally, this is understandable as a lot of
marketers use WordPress and thus would be concerned about something
like this, which also explains the other popular thread about the WordPress
2.8 upgrade problems.

Other popular threads are ones where somebody is sharing some marketing
techniques and really go into detail on them. These are always
appreciated by other members.

But other than those two items (only things that I can think of off the
top of my head) what makes you check out a Main Discussion thread?

Does the author have anything to do with it?

Do you sometimes check out a thread simply because it HAS generated
interest and you're curious to see what all the fuss is about? I have to
admit that there are threads that I would have normally never bothered
looking at but because they got thousands of views and hundreds of
responses, I just had to see what was going on.

Do you check out threads that ask questions, such as this one, simply
because you like giving your opinion? In other words, do you like threads
that allow for interaction?

Okay, the one reason I am asking this is simply to know what it is that
makes you click on a thread. But there is another reason.

By the majority of the membership expressing their interests, there is
more information available to others who don't normally start threads.
These members will now have a better idea of what people want to see
and then, hopefully, start threads that actually add value to the forum
instead of ones that end up bringing about problems.

Now, having said that, I understand that some people like a good rant
and a good argument. Just because somebody likes a certain kind of
thread doesn't mean it's good for the membership as a whole. But my
faith in the majority of the people here has to make me believe that most
people only want threads that add to the forum and don't cause problems.

Threads that cause problems?

Off the top of my head?

Self Promotional
Rants (of any kind)

The former ends up getting deleted while the latter ends up starting
fights because let's face it, there is always somebody on the other end
of a rant against something.

So what makes you click on a thread?

What do you want to see more of?

What do you want to see less of?

[anton343]

not to suck up to anyone but there are a few people that i always check out when they make a post so yes I guess the author does come into it.

[TLTheLiberator]

In no particular order...

The author:

Cries for help:

Interesting Topic:

Resources:

New tips and tricks:


TL

[Dean Shainin]

Hi Steven,

The primary reason I checked out your thread was because you're the author. I was interested in what you have to say... I tend to read threads that I know the author so I don't waste too much time.

Does the author have anything to do with it? YES!

Do you sometimes check out a thread simply because it HAS generated
interest and you're curious to see what all the fuss is about? YES/NO

Do you check out threads that ask questions, such as this one, simply
because you like giving your opinion? In other words, do you like threads
that allow for interaction? YES

Beyond that I'll read threads in regards to the niches I'm involved in...

Cheers,
Dean

[shirland]

I check out a thread based on the topic, I am always looking to acquire new knowledge about way to keep my business expanding. I always pick up some tidbits that i did not know about the different marketing strategies.

[Harry Behrens]

Threads with a question as the subject line always catch my eye, and if I feel that I can answer the question or provide a link that answers it I'm sure to click on it... in fact this is the type of thread I come on here looking for in the first place, other than the usual "Here's what I do" type of posts... usually the other stuff I read just happens to catch my eye in the meanwhile.

But yeah the main reason I scan threads is for topics where I can get that "I helped" feeling... I just like having that feeling I guess.

[Diana Lane]

The subject, the author, the last contributor, something that's already provoked a lot of page views and responses (providing the subject doesn't indicate that the thread is probably full of rants and useless arguing (not all arguing is useless)).

Many of the threads that interest me in the main forum will usually end up in the SEO forum anyway, but other than that, my favourite main forum threads describe useful techniques, debate the debatable ones, or are success stories posted by genuine achievers (Amy Bass's thread of a few months back springs to mind). All of this I'd be happy to see more of.

What turns me off are the 'Why you'll be an internet marketing failure' threads (addressed to zillions of people, all with very different circumstances, plans, strengths and weaknesses), the 'let's have another pop at the way the mods/forum/WSOs operate' threads, and attention-seekers that start threads based on insubstantiated opinion, while presenting it as fact.

I think I've just learned to ignore the worst of it though - I still see the best in this place every day, and can't imagine that ever changing.

[Bill Farnham]

Anything that looks like a train wreck in progress is a good candidate

Other than that, someone I respect is always worth a read. And that also applies when the last person showing as posting is in that catagory.

Of course my mood has a lot to do with it as well. Some days everything looks like it won't be interesting, and other times even old questions that have been asked twice a day will be worth a peek and maybe a response.

Lately, (imo) the quality of the board has plumeted to the point where most of the posts seem like this is just a surrogate babysitting service for the galactically bored, or even worse, poseurs who are vicariously living life as an internet marketer thinking this forum is the mothership.

And, of course, any thread that addresses a situation where I'm looking for an answer or guidence on a particular issue is always appreciated.

KJ

[Chris Drinkwater]

Seeing your name Steven..... never boring

[Kat Fuschillo]

Hi,

I'm still quite new to the WF. So, at the moment I'm trying to read as many posts as possible. I find that I mostly read posts on subjects I know little about. In the hope that I might learn something new.


Kat

[Diane S]

Flaming folders are always interesting, but do I see value? Sometimes.
Interesting thread titles are at least amusing.
I love to congratulate newbies on their first sales.
I don't appreciate sales pitches as posts.
As I become more familiar with the regular posters, names are starting to influence my clicking pattern...

[Elmer Hurlstone]

All of the above.

[Intrepreneur]

I click on it if I think I can help, shame though that many never hit that thanks button or return the favour.

[Mike Hersh]

I still don't have a lot of posts, but I really like to help people. That's the main reason why I started a blog. I wanted to help people who need and want to knopw the things I have to offer. and I do agree, your threads are always interesting to have a look.

Regards,

Mike G

[Woody C]

The thread subject is the main reason for clicking on the link.

2 questions I ALWAYS ask before clicking on a thread link are:

A. Is the subject something that could possibly help me right now (where I am currently in my IM endeavors)?

B. Do I have knowledge in the subject so I can leave a thoughtful and helpful response?

With that being said, I tend to stay away from the Main Disscussion Forum because it is too rapid paced and general for me. I like to read/post in the less general sections of the forum because they are subject centered and the people that respond there are usually masters of the subjects.

[Brad Spencer]

Originally Posted by Steven Wagenheim

There are two purposes to this thread that I will address as clearly as
possible.

When we come to the Warrior Forum Main Discussion area, we are greeted
with a number of threads on the first page...each one trying to get our
attention. Some do, some don't.

If you look at the main page right now, you will see a few threads that have
generated some discussion. Probably the most popular right now is the
one about the WordPress virus. Naturally, this is understandable as a lot of
marketers use WordPress and thus would be concerned about something
like this, which also explains the other popular thread about the WordPress
2.8 upgrade problems.

Other popular threads are ones where somebody is sharing some marketing
techniques and really go into detail on them. These are always
appreciated by other members.

But other than those two items (only things that I can think of off the
top of my head) what makes you check out a Main Discussion thread?

Does the author have anything to do with it?

Do you sometimes check out a thread simply because it HAS generated
interest and you're curious to see what all the fuss is about? I have to
admit that there are threads that I would have normally never bothered
looking at but because they got thousands of views and hundreds of
responses, I just had to see what was going on.

Do you check out threads that ask questions, such as this one, simply
because you like giving your opinion? In other words, do you like threads
that allow for interaction?

Okay, the one reason I am asking this is simply to know what it is that
makes you click on a thread. But there is another reason.

By the majority of the membership expressing their interests, there is
more information available to others who don't normally start threads.
These members will now have a better idea of what people want to see
and then, hopefully, start threads that actually add value to the forum
instead of ones that end up bringing about problems.

Now, having said that, I understand that some people like a good rant
and a good argument. Just because somebody likes a certain kind of
thread doesn't mean it's good for the membership as a whole. But my
faith in the majority of the people here has to make me believe that most
people only want threads that add to the forum and don't cause problems.

Threads that cause problems?

Off the top of my head?

Self Promotional
Rants (of any kind)

The former ends up getting deleted while the latter ends up starting
fights because let's face it, there is always somebody on the other end
of a rant against something.

So what makes you click on a thread?

What do you want to see more of?

What do you want to see less of?

What Makes Me Click

1. Person posting- I usually pay attention to who is writing the original thread. Like most people.

2. Number of Replies- I don't go for the biggest discussions b/c I feel like my opinion will get drowned out by 30+ responses. I also feel that from 5-15 responses is the sweet spot to move a conversation in a certain direction before it gets too "he said, she said" as I call it.

3. Type of Thread- I usually always look at "help me" threads b/c that is what we're here for and eventually people know who the "helpers" are and I've gotten a lot of partners by helping others (not the person I helped usually but "observers")

4. Topic- Am I interested or is it relevant to me? If yes, I usually click.

What I want to See More Of

I would like to see more people ask unique questions. I feel like there needs to be a "search function tutorial" thread that gets sticky so people use it. Topics are beat to death. I like to help but I don't have time to post the same response 50 times a month

I digress...I still want to help the guy with 10 posts who is new.

I'd also like to see more "tutorial' type posts where people lay out with bold, underlines, bullet points, resource links, etc where people spend the time to TEACH.

These posts are my favorite and I love to contribute a "sub point" on a certain area if I know about it. It is a "reward" to me intellectually to contribute to a great post (in the same way an aspiring painter would love to know they helped a great artist with a masterpiece...melodramatic maybe but it illustrates my point).

What I want to see Less Of

Rants, arguments, and "dick measuring" posts- I hate when people compare who is better than one other person. Many things work in different ways for different reasons. If you can't say something nice...get off the forum. It is annoying when people hijack threads for their ego. Get over yourself and make money. Ego is a waste of time.

Less "thanks, great post" type stuff- I usually do this on my threads that I post a question just to show people I'm paying attention. I also use the "thanks" button for extra impact. However, I notice people (usually newbies) getting their post count up that way. Kind of annoying and it distorts my "thread characteristics" view (I like 5-15 replies type threads).

Wow that was a long post!

Cheers,

Brad Spencer

[John Taylor]

Steven,

Originally Posted by Steven Wagenheim

What do you want to see more of?

What do you want to see less of?

Everyone visits the forum with their own
personal agenda.

Some folks are looking for help with a
specific question or problem.

Others simply want to keep up with the
latest happenings.

Some folks are looking for name branding, or
sig file exposure for links/traffic.

So there isn't a generic answer to your
questions.

However..

I'd like to see people think before they post:

• Is this thread adding value to the forum?
• Could I find the answer by searching?
• Is the the correct forum for this topic?
• Will this help someone other than myself?

John

[Steven Wagenheim]

Originally Posted by John Taylor

However..

I'd like to see people think before they post:

• Is this thread adding value to the forum?
• Could I find the answer by searching?
• Is the the correct forum for this topic?
• Will this help someone other than myself?

John

John, this is some excellent advice and something everybody here should
read and remember.

I couldn't have said it better myself.

[clarissa25]

Well I click a thread yes because of the author, and i also like the ones that give detailed strategies. I haven't even checked out the wordpress virus one yet. It just doesn't draw my attention. But I really hope people continue to click on my cry for help threads. LOL. I'm still learning how to do html, formating and build pages, the techy stuff. And sure I could search for it, but oftentimes that takes a whole lot more time, and I like better to learned from people who have learned something personally. You never know who has written those so called factual tutorials out there.

[Don Schenk]

What makes me click on a particular thread is...

1. The headline got hold of my curiosity
2. Someone is asking for help in an area about which I have some knowledge
3. A long, popular thread like ones stated by Andrew Cavanagh, David Preston, Hey Sal's WP thread.
4. A post by a particular warrior - I always read Waggs

:-Don

[Chris_Willow]

Sometimes I like to click on threads with dumb/controversial/retarded titles just to see peoples reaction and flame wars going on
But hey, that's just me lol

Chris

[Canada]

I always come into the forum with the "New Posts" button, so I don't typically select posts to read based on the sub-forum they're in.

That said, I'll click on a topic if it's discussing something that I'm currently focusing on (right now it's article marketing). If it's a question with only a couple responses, and I might be able to contribute, I'll click through.

I do use the "hover excerpt" or whatever you call it, to see the first couple lines of the first post in a thread. I'll often not bother to click through after reading that, and getting a clearer sense of what's being discussed.

There are a few people I'll click through if they've started the thread, but still usually only if it's something that pertains to me at the moment, or, if it's an educational type post, in which case I'll bookmark it for later reading.

[Bruce NewMedia]

I'm attracted to headlines and authors.

If the author is someone like Steve, I almost always click on it.

If the headline is controversial I'll usually click on it.

If the headline is a shocking success story I'll usually click on it.

If the headline is about something I'm expert in, I'll usually click on it.
(for instance a question I believe I could answer.)
_____
Bruce

[TelegramSam]

Originally Posted by Steven Wagenheim

What Makes You Click On A Main Discussion Thread?

Whenever you start a thread Steve ;-)

1) Seriously, if the thread looks interesting to me.

2) If there are some threads with large post counts.

3) If something piques my curiosity and I try to guess what it is about before clicking, (when I am bored for a few minutes).

4) When I think there will be a hot chick ready to talk to me. Ooops, wrong forum ;-) (only joking...)

5) If it is about a product I may be interested in etc.

[Swastik]

In no particular order -

- The author of the thread, in this case you.
- The headline, if it's something I can help with.
- The last poster, if I see someone, whom I respect, post, I'd usually click on it. ExRat is one great example. Anything by him, you got to read.

[summerm]

1. High number of replies. I like reading all the different views and ideas... and I like controversy
2. Topic - I keep seeing topics on issues I was curious about too, but never thought to ask about

I'm new here, so I don't yet recognize the names to judge posts on authors. And I don't know enough to actually see many topics that I can help on... so that's not yet a motivator, either.

[Gabe77]

The title, the author and interest it generated from the warriors. I always look forward to reading posts initiated by seasoned warriors. There are lots of them here that I follow. I love reading their inputs because it gives me a different perspective and allows me to make an informed decision on issues relevant to my work, IM or otherwise.

[Kevin Riley]

I'm pretty random. I tend to pop in here while I'm waiting for my other computer to reboot or a Camtasia video to process, so I'm looking for some R&R.

I'll be attracted by subject lines that might provide a good discussion, where I may discover something new, where I might be able to help out, or just some random weirdness where I can have fun.

I tend to not be attracted by those short subject lines that are too generic, like "I have a question" - yeah, so what?

[artwebster]

Sometimes a title will have me 'clicking' but more often than not it is the lack of responses that do it for me.

I tend to ignore anything that has more than 10 resoponses because I am aware that after that number, none of the responses will factor in what has gone before. There is nothing more guaranteed to hack me off than to look at what should be a long and interesting discussion turned into a repository for 'me too' posts.

If there are less than ten responses there is a chance that not enough readers have appreciated or understood what the OP is trying to say and I feel that even the most stupid questions or topics deserve responses - after all, somebody took the time to write them. (Forget 'bots' - I still can't tell a crap bot post from a crap human post)

[ken_p]

for me, i always get attracted to title threads that are asking questions, because its always interesting for me to read the answers of the other marketeers, and what they have to say. Second is, i've been here for a while, and there are certain authors that I look out for, when they start a post, or reply to a post. And the rest is plain curiousity.

[GeorgR.]

simple answer:

EMOTIONS.

A thread where i know that opinions might collide and people might be upset, or some spicy discussion where i KNOW that some people will agree and others won't...thats when i click

I also know that everyone and their mom always clicks and reads YOUR threads...so i clicked too

I also like threads where someone asking for help and i know some answer.

[JohnMcCabe]

Steve, here's how I decide to read a thread...

1. I scan the subject lines and authors looking for something that catches my attention. There are a handful of people on the forum that automatically make the first cut (you among them).

2. I mouse over the subject line to read the first few words. If I'm still interested, I go ahead and click.

Sometimes, though, I come here for a break. In that case, I'm looking for a entertainment - a little humor (or even humour), a good rant, maybe even a prize fight. That's when I start paying attention to the activity...

What do I want more of? Depends on what mood I'm in...

What do I want less of? Whining about threads being deleted, Asking for successful people to lay out, for free and in fine detail, exactly how they became successful. Whining when that doesn't happen, which turns into "the gurus just want our money" whining. The word GURU.

Guess I'd better quit before I slip inot whining myself...

[David Raybould]

Curiosity and willingness to help others.

If I think I can help the poster, I'll click
the thread and help them as much as I
can...

On the other hand, if it's something that
makes me curious, I may just click on it
to see what's up.

Halbert was right. Curiosity is killer for
motivating people to take action.

-David Raybould